Guild Urges Tolerance As Ramadan & Lent Begin Together
THE Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners Nigeria (GIMP-Nigeria) has urged Muslims and Christians to use the rare overlap of Ramadan and Lent to promote religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and national unity.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Vice Chairman of the Guild’s Governing Council, Mr. Muyiwa Akintunde, described the coincidence as a powerful reminder that different faith traditions can share moments of reflection and spiritual renewal.
Shared Spiritual Responsibility
Akintunde noted that despite differences in religious calendars, both seasons centre on fasting, prayer, charity and moral rebirth. He said the alignment reinforces the idea that faith communities are not mutually exclusive and must live together in harmony.
“Despite different calendars, humanity’s search for meaning often lines up in unexpected ways,” he stated.
According to him, Ramadan offers Muslims the opportunity to demonstrate Islam’s values of mercy, justice and compassion, especially at a time Nigeria faces security and social cohesion challenges. He said the spirit of self-restraint and empathy taught during Ramadan should shape interactions with people of other faiths.
Similarly, he reminded Christians that Lent is a 40-day period of repentance, reflection and spiritual rebirth leading to Easter. He encouraged believers to focus on prayer, fasting and almsgiving while reflecting on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Beyond Abstinence
The Guild stressed that fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drink, urging Nigerians to also refrain from hate speech, intolerance and divisive actions.
It called on religious leaders to use their pulpits to preach unity and mutual respect, while encouraging media practitioners to avoid sensational reporting that could inflame tensions.
GIMP-Nigeria also advocated interfaith engagements such as shared community service and interfaith fast-breaking events. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting narratives that strengthen peace and national cohesion.
As Ramadan and Lent progress, the Guild prayed for peace, security and prosperity in Nigeria, urging citizens to embrace dialogue and shared humanity.
