Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated Muslim and Christian faithful on the commencement of this year’s Ramadan and Lenten fast, urging them to use the sacred period to seek God’s face in prayers for peace and prosperity.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the governor called on Nigerians, particularly Lagosians, to remain steadfast in prayers against untoward occurrences in the country and to work for the advancement of shared peace and prosperity.
Sanwo-Olu said the fasting seasons are significant in the Christian and Islamic calendars, teaching abstinence from worldly pleasures, steadfastness in prayers and total submission to the will of God.
“I congratulate Lagosians and Nigerians, especially Christians and Muslims, on the celebration of this year’s Lent and Ramadan. The fasting period is very significant to Christian and Muslim faithful across the world,” he said.
He noted that the commencement of both religious observances on the same day was divinely ordained for peace and stability in the nation and the world at large.
According to him, Lent and Ramadan provide a period for adherents to seek God’s intervention in human affairs, emphasising the virtues of grace, mercy and forgiveness.
“As we join the rest of the world in observing this year’s Lent and Ramadan, I enjoin Lagosians and Nigerians, especially Christians and Muslims, to be more steadfast in prayers to God against any form of evil in our land,” he said.
The governor also urged residents to demonstrate tolerance and good conduct towards one another, while offering prayers for sustained peace, unity and stability in Lagos State and the country at large.