President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace compassion, unity, and selflessness as the Lenten season commences.

In a press release titled “Statement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the Commencement of the 2025 Lenten Season” shared on Thursday, Tinubu extended his good wishes to Christians in Nigeria and worldwide.

He urged them to reflect deeply during the 40 days of fasting, prayer, and repentance.

“During Lent, Christians engage in earnest prayer, self-denial, almsgiving, and deep spiritual reflection. It is a solemn reminder of life’s transient nature,” Tinubu stated, quoting the 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 noted that this year’s Lenten season coincides with the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims, which also emphasises devotion, sacrifice, and kindness.

He described this overlap as “a testament to the unity in diversity that characterises our nation.”

Beyond spiritual practices, Tinubu urged Nigerians to extend kindness to others.

“Let us extend a helping hand to those in need, comfort the grieving, visit the sick, and uplift the marginalised,” he said, adding that “our love for one another is a true testament of worship.”

PUNCH Online reports that Thursday (today) is the second day of Lent.

The President also highlighted encouraging economic developments, noting that Nigeria ended 2024 on a positive note.

“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,” Tinubu stated.

He commended the efforts of security and law enforcement agencies, describing their progress as “commendable strides” that offer “steadfast hope and optimism for the future.”

Tinubu’s message emphasised the need for Nigerians to embrace selflessness and service to build a more empathetic and united nation.

“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 appealed.

Concluding his message, Tinubu prayed for healing, prosperity, and peace across Nigeria. “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,” the President said.