President Bola Tinubu, on Monday in Abuja, called on Muslim and Christian leaders to show greater compassion for the poor and underprivileged by implementing policies that directly impact grassroots communities.
The president made the appeal while hosting governors for the breaking of an interfaith fast at the Presidential Villa, noting that the concurrent periods of Ramadan and Lent underscore shared values of humanity, discipline, and sacrifice.
“Ramadan and Lent offer an opportunity for reflection on the plight of others and designing programmes that uplift the livelihoods of many,” President Tinubu said.
He lauded the virtues of humility, self-restraint, and service to humanity, emphasising that more progress could be achieved in reducing poverty and empowering youths.
“Tolerate everybody and build structure in this period of faith, unity, harmony, and sacrifice. Let the young ones breathe too,” the president added.
President Tinubu welcomed Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf and commended Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for initiatives that benefited both Muslims and Christians during the fasting period. He also highlighted development efforts across states, stressing that the fruits of hard work must reach all Nigerians, particularly those at the grassroots.
The president reassured citizens of ongoing government initiatives, including establishing state police to strengthen security and protect communities, saying: “Security is the foundation of prosperity. Without it, farms cannot flourish, businesses cannot grow, and families cannot sleep in peace.”
He added, “Development must not recognise religion. Compassion must not recognise tribe. Opportunity must not recognise status. I am determined to rescue this country, and as long as we work together, the best is yet to come for Nigeria.”
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, representing the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman, praised President Tinubu for fostering national unity amid religious and ethnic tensions. He described the simultaneous fasting of Ramadan and Lent as divinely inspired and a reminder for leaders and citizens to support the less privileged.
Governor Uzodimma commended the president’s collaborative leadership, noting that the interfaith gathering highlighted opportunities to address political and social challenges while promoting progress across the nation.
