President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday called on Muslim and Christian leaders to translate the spiritual lessons of Ramadan and Lent into concrete policies that uplift Nigeria’s poor and underserved.
Speaking while hosting governors and religious leaders to an interfaith fast-breaking at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu said the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons should serve as a moral signal for unity, sacrifice, and people-focused governance.
He stressed that both periods of fasting symbolise discipline, compassion, and service to humanity, values he urged leaders to reflect on in programmes that directly improve livelihoods at the grassroots.
“This season reminds us to pray together, work together, and love one another. Let our policies touch the downtrodden, empower the youth, and spread opportunity across communities,” the President said.
Push for Poverty Reduction, Youth Empowerment
Tinubu noted that while progress had been made, more must be done to reduce poverty and create space for young Nigerians to thrive.
“Let the young ones breathe,” he urged, calling for inclusive structures built on faith, unity, and shared sacrifice.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to social investment and economic recovery, declaring that Nigeria is “coming out of uncertainty” and showing signs of improvement.
State Police Plan Back on the Table
In a major policy signal, Tinubu reaffirmed plans to establish state police as part of efforts to address insecurity nationwide.
“Security is the foundation of prosperity. We will establish state police to curb insecurity. This is about practicality, not politics”, he said.
He argued that decentralising policing would empower states to better protect residents while strengthening the national security framework.
Commendations and Appeals to Governors
Tinubu acknowledged several governors during the event, welcoming Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the State House and praising Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for extending Ramadan outreach to both Muslims and Christians.
He urged leaders nationwide to ensure development initiatives cut across religious and ethnic divides.
“Development must not recognise religion. Compassion must not recognise tribe. Opportunity must not recognise status,” he said.
Governors Back Unity Message
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who spoke on behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, described the convergence of Ramadan and Lent as “divinely inspired,” noting that such an alignment last occurred more than three decades ago.
He said the moment should remind Nigerians not to allow religious or ethnic differences to shape political choices, while commending Tinubu for strengthening collaboration between federal and state governments.
Reaffirming his administration’s agenda, Tinubu pledged to deliver on promises to improve security, expand opportunity, and rebuild confidence in governance.
“I am determined to rescue this country. As long as we work together in delivering hope to our citizens, the best is yet to come for Nigeria,” he declared.
