As Eid-el-Fitr approaches, marking the end of Ramadan, leaders and organizations across Nigeria and beyond are calling for unity, reflection, and support for those in need. The convergence of Ramadan and Lent this year has highlighted the shared values of devotion, charity, and reflection across different faiths.

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has extended his congratulations to Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan, emphasizing the importance of carrying forward the lessons learned during the holy month. He urged citizens to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's efforts to address the nation's challenges and reiterated the National Assembly's commitment to enacting legislation that supports the President's agenda. Senator Barau also expressed optimism about the impact of the newly established regional development commissions in North West, North Central, South East, South West, and South-South on the country's development.

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, also greeted the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr. He urged Muslims to continue embodying the virtues of patience, compassion, and self-discipline cultivated during Ramadan. He stressed that the principles of charity, empathy, and devotion should remain throughout the year, strengthening commitment to service and community welfare, and urged prayers for overcoming the challenges facing the state and country.

However, the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has condemned the killing of 16 hunters from northern Nigeria in Uromi, Edo State, emphasizing the urgent need to uphold the rule of law and prevent senseless violence. MPAC called on the government to launch a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice and address the root causes of such violence through education, awareness campaigns, and better law enforcement.

Meanwhile, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has advised road users to exercise caution and responsibility during the Eid ul-Fitr celebrations to prevent road crashes. The authority congratulated the Muslim community in Ghana and urged pedestrians to use designated crossing points to prevent accidents.

The overlapping of Ramadan and Lent this year has created a remarkable atmosphere of shared devotion and unity. In Kenya, the convergence of these sacred seasons has been particularly evident, with stories emerging of faith as a unifying thread rather than a dividing line. From Nairobi to Lamu, communities have come together in acts of charity, reflection, and mutual respect.

In Nairobi, Jamia Mosque and Holy Family Basilica stand as symbols of faith, with worshippers from both traditions sharing prayers and acts of devotion. In Kisumu, pilgrims and residents alike have participated in the Stations of the Cross procession, while in Kitale, churches and mosques have united to distribute food parcels to the needy. Eastern and Northeastern Kenya have revealed a quieter, contemplative side of the season, with Muslim elders and Christian leaders emphasizing the importance of faith in fostering understanding and unity.

The coastal regions of Kenya, including Mombasa, Malindi, and Lamu, have also showcased the spirit of Ramadan and Lent, with families sharing meals, communities engaging in charity drives, and religious leaders emphasizing the shared values of giving and respect. As Ramadan draws to a close, the unity and resilience of communities across Nigeria, Kenya, and beyond shine brighter than ever, demonstrating that in seeking the divine, people often find one another.