President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace compassion and empathy as they observe the Lenten season.
In a message signed by the President, Tinubu encouraged citizens to go beyond fasting and prayer and embody the love of Jesus Christ through acts of kindness towards those in need.
“Beyond fasting and prayer, I urge all Nigerians to embrace the love of Jesus Christ by showing compassion and empathy to those around us,” the President stated in his message. “Let us extend a helping hand to those in need, comfort the grieving, visit the sick, and uplift the marginalized. The Scriptures remind us that our love for one another is a true testament of worship.”
He further emphasized that the Lenten season should inspire selflessness and service as part of efforts to build a nation shaped by empathy and generosity. “Let this season deepen our commitment to selflessness and service as we strive to build a nation where empathy and generosity shape our daily interactions,” he added.
In his message marking the commencement of the Lenten season, President Tinubu extended heartfelt wishes to Christians in Nigeria and worldwide who observe this sacred period. He noted that Lent, beginning on Ash Wednesday, is a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and repentance, preparing Christians for the celebration of Easter.
“During Lent, Christians engage in earnest prayer, self-denial, almsgiving, and deep spiritual reflection. It is a solemn reminder of life’s transient nature, echoed in the Holy Scriptures: ‘By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground since from it you were taken; for dust you are, and to dust you will return.’ (Genesis 3:19),” the President wrote.
He also highlighted the significance of this year’s Lenten season, which coincides with the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims. This overlap, according to the President, reflects the unity in diversity that defines Nigeria. “This convergence of religious observances is a testament to the unity in diversity that characterises our nation.”
Tinubu noted the encouraging progress the country has made in various sectors, stating, “We ended 2024 positively, as our economy showed strong growth in the last quarter compared to the same period in 2023. Food prices are declining, the exchange rate is stabilising, fuel prices are dropping, and our internal security is strengthening.”
He further expressed optimism, praising the strides made by the security and law enforcement agencies. “This progress fills us with steadfast hope and optimism for the future.”
The President concluded his message with prayers for the nation, saying, “As we journey through this season with penitence and steadfast devotion to God Almighty, may His kindness bring healing to the sick, prosperity to our people, and peace to our nation. May we experience God’s goodness in a profound way this Lenten season. May He renew our hearts, strengthen our faith, and guide us on righteousness.”
