The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has described the overlapping start of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims and the Lenten season for Christians as a deeply meaningful moment for Nigeria.
In a statement released on Tuesday through his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, the governor highlighted that the simultaneous observance of these sacred periods provides a unique chance for reflection, unity, and a renewed commitment to faith, sacrifice, love, and peaceful coexistence.
He urged both Muslims and Christians to dedicate this time to prayer, seeking divine guidance for Edo State and the nation as a whole. “This is a profound spiritual moment for our nation,” Okpebholo said. “As Muslims observe fasting and Christians mark Lent, I encourage everyone to lift Nigeria in prayer and supplication. Let us seek God’s guidance to overcome our challenges and build a more united, prosperous, and peaceful country.”
The governor also extended good wishes to the faithful, hoping that Muslims have a spiritually rewarding Ramadan and that Christians experience a reflective and grace-filled Lenten season. He prayed that the period brings blessings, strength, and renewed hope to families across Edo State and beyond.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has confirmed that Wednesday, February 18, 2026, marks the beginning of Ramadan. The spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs announced that the crescent moon was sighted in various parts of the country on Tuesday, the 29th day of Sha’aban, officially ushering in Ramadan 1447AH across Nigeria.
