Lagos, Nigeria — On Friday, March 20, 2026, Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urged citizens to carry forward the values of patience, tolerance, and compassion learned during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season.
Speaking after Eid prayers at Dodan Barracks in Lagos, a major city in southwestern Nigeria, the President said the lessons of the season should extend beyond religious rituals and help shape national development. Okay News reports that his message focused on unity, shared responsibility, and peaceful coexistence in Africa’s most populous country.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President stressed that national progress depends on citizens living together peacefully regardless of differences in religion or ethnicity.
“I pray for peace in the country. The stability, peace and security of the nation is not just one man’s responsibility. We are all involved. Report suspicious movements of people across the length and breadth of the country. These are our responsibilities too.
“We give thanks to God for guiding us through the month of Ramadan. We have accepted the principles, philosophy and doctrine of giving, peace, security and love of our nation, and of neighbours, and kindness to all humanity in any way we can. We should assist the needy and help the vulnerable. That is the teaching. May God accept our sacrifices.
“We must continue not because Ramadan has come and it’s over. We thank almighty God for giving us that month. But the teaching must continue even after Ramadan. We must continue to be our brother’s keeper. Good behaviour, good neighbours, and love for humanity,” the President said.
Reflecting on religion’s role in Nigeria, he noted that different faiths share a common belief in one God while promoting moral values. He encouraged Nigerians to embrace diversity and strengthen unity.
The President also spoke about his recent visit to the United Kingdom alongside Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, where they were received by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. He described the visit as a reflection of Nigeria’s global standing.
“Our visit was a very big opportunity for us to be a good example of the diversity in our society, being able to accept one another as our brothers’ keepers. Tolerance among all faiths.
“The fact that we worship the same God doesn’t mean our styles have to be the same. Our behaviour could be different, but we serve God Almighty,” he said.
Also present at the prayers were Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; and former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola.
In his remarks, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to peace and stability.
Meanwhile, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, urged Muslims to maintain discipline and peace beyond Ramadan.
“Today, we are witnessing a world unsettled by tensions and fear. Nations are on edge, and economies are fragile. For Nigerians, especially the good citizens of this great nation, this is a time for calmness, not chaos—a time for wisdom, not provocation. Ours is a religion of peace and discipline and care,” he said.
The President’s message highlights a broader call for Nigerians to remain united and actively contribute to national peace and security.
