Global Peace Foundation Nigeria Urges Christian and Muslim Faithful to Harmonize Lent and Ramadan for National Renewal

Global Peace Foundation Nigeria urges Christians and Muslims to embrace tolerance and discipline during the unique convergence of Lent and Ramadan in Abuja.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 6:27 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Sun Nigeria

Divine Convergence Offers Unique Opportunity for National Reconciliation

The Global Peace Foundation Nigeria, or GPFN, has issued a heartfelt appeal to the conscience of Christian and Muslim communities, urging them to utilize their respective fasting seasons as a catalyst for peace. During a National Religious Leaders’ Consultation in Abuja, Rev. John Hayab, the Country Director of GPFN, highlighted the rare overlap of the Lenten journey and the sacred month of Ramadan in 2026. This convergence is viewed by peace advocates not merely as a coincidence of the lunar and solar calendars, but as a divine opportunity for the two major faith groups to practice parallel virtues that can strengthen the foundational fabric of the Nigerian state.

Three Spiritual Pillars Identified as Essential for Nation Building

According to Rev. Hayab, both Lent and Ramadan are anchored in three foundational pillars that speak directly to the challenges of modern governance. The first is discipline and self-denial, which the GPFN argues should extend beyond abstaining from food to mastering greed and the corrupt impulses that fracture society. The second pillar, compassion, compels the faithful to empathize with the struggles of the marginalized and the poor. Finally, the pillar of purification calls for a cleansing of the heart from prejudice and intolerance, transforming religious practitioners into active agents of reconciliation who view those of different faiths as brothers under God rather than as threats.

Moral Conviction Cited as Necessary Counterpart to Secular Law

Joseph Ochogwu, the Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, reinforced the sentiment that while secular laws regulate actions, moral conviction rooted in faith is what truly encourages ethical conduct. He noted that the misuse of religious identity for personal or political gain continues to be a primary driver of division within the country. To achieve lasting stability, Ochogwu urged Nigerians to prioritize shared moral values over superficial identity differences. He emphasized that the collaboration between security agencies and faith groups remains a vital component in managing regional tensions and safeguarding the national interest.