President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday appealed to Nigerians to forgive him if he has offended them as Muslims across the country begin the Ramadan fast.
The president spoke during the opening of this year’s Tafsir at the State House Mosque in Abuja.
The annual Tafsir marks the start of Ramadan activities at the Presidential Villa and draws members of the Muslim community, government officials and aides.
President Tinubu noted that this year’s Ramadan coincides with the Christian season of Lent, describing the overlap as a reminder of shared values among Nigerians of different faiths.
“Ramadan coincides with Lent, reminding us of our common commitment to sacrifice, discipline, prayer and self-denial,” he said.
He urged citizens to reflect on the teachings of the season and apply them in their daily lives.
“We start this Ramadan with all the teaching that it brings to us all. But the main principle is to do good to people, to share love and faith, and to forgive sins. I say, if I have sinned, forgive me as Nigerians.”
Tinubu said fasting should go beyond abstaining from food and drink, adding that it should be reflected in conduct, compassion and service to others.
He called on Nigerians across religious divides to pray for peace and to support efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry and other security challenges facing the country.
Chief Imam of the State House Mosque Abdulwahid Suleiman thanked Allah for granting Muslims the opportunity to witness another Ramadan.
He prayed for wisdom, health and strength for the president and members of his administration and asked for peace and stability in the country.
