Betta Edu Commends Oluremi Tinubu for Promoting National Unity Through Interfaith Iftar and Lent Gathering

Dr. Betta Edu, has applauded Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, for organizing an interfaith breaking of fast that brought together Muslims observing Ramadan and Christians observing Lent in a show of unity and shared national values.

 

The event, which took place on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa Abuja, gathered prominent female leaders within government as well as stakeholders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The gathering served as a symbolic moment of reflection, prayer, and dialogue among Nigerians of different faiths.

 

In a statement released after the event, Edu described the initiative as a thoughtful and timely effort aimed at strengthening national cohesion and encouraging peaceful coexistence among citizens.

 

According to her, the First Lady’s decision to host an interfaith gathering during two significant religious seasons—Ramadan for Muslims and Lent for Christians—demonstrates a deep commitment to promoting unity, peace, and mutual respect across Nigeria’s diverse religious communities.

 

“I joined Her Excellency, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the Interfaith Breaking of Fast (Iftar and Lent) gathering held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja,” Edu said.

 

The event was attended by members of the female Federal Executive Council, female heads of government agencies, and leaders of extra-ministerial departments. Several key stakeholders within the APC were also present, underscoring the importance attached to the initiative.

 

Edu noted that bringing together Muslims observing Ramadan and Christians observing Lent in one gathering of prayer and reflection sends a powerful message about the role of faith and dialogue in fostering national unity.

 

She emphasized that despite differences in religious practices, Nigerians share common values such as sacrifice, charity, compassion, and a commitment to the progress of the country.

 

According to Edu, these shared values are essential foundations for strengthening national harmony and addressing the challenges facing the nation.

 

“The interfaith gathering stands as a strong symbol of harmony and inclusiveness, reminding us that despite our religious differences, we share common values of sacrifice, charity, passion, love for humanity, and commitment to the progress of our nation,” she stated.

 

The former minister further highlighted the role of the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative, which she described as a platform that continues to promote programmes focused on compassion, social inclusion, and national unity.

 

The initiative, according to Edu, aims to uplift communities across the country, provide support for vulnerable groups, and encourage collective participation in building a better Nigeria.

 

Since its launch, the Renewed Hope Initiative has been involved in several social programmes designed to empower women, support families, and promote welfare among disadvantaged populations.

 

Edu said the First Lady’s leadership through the initiative reflects a broader commitment to strengthening social bonds and encouraging Nigerians to work together regardless of religious or cultural differences.

 

She also called on Nigerians to take advantage of the spiritual seasons of Ramadan and Lent to pray for the nation and actively promote peace and understanding.

 

“Let us deliberately pray for Nigeria during this period of fasting and reflection,” she urged.

 

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is home to millions of Muslims and Christians who coexist across different regions of the country. While the nation has experienced periodic religious tensions in some areas, initiatives promoting interfaith dialogue are often seen as important steps toward strengthening unity.

 

Observers say gatherings such as the interfaith Iftar and Lent event hosted by the First Lady help reinforce the message that religious diversity can be a source of strength rather than division.

 

For many participants, the event also offered an opportunity to reflect on the importance of cooperation, compassion, and national solidarity at a time when the country continues to face economic and security challenges.

 

Edu concluded her message by thanking the First Lady for what she described as her continued leadership and commitment to initiatives that promote unity and national development.

 

“Thank you, Mother of the Nation, for your leadership and initiative,” she said.

 

The interfaith gathering has since been widely regarded as a commendable step toward deepening understanding among Nigeria’s religious communities and reinforcing the bonds that unite the nation.