In a moment, President Bola Tinubu has asked Nigerians to forgive him if he has wronged them.
The appeal was made on Wednesday, February 18, during the opening of this year’s Tafsir at the State House mosque in Abuja.
The gathering marked the start of Ramadan 2026 and brought together religious leaders and government officials.
Speaking openly, the President said, “I say, if I have sinned, forgive me as Nigerians.” The statement quickly drew attention, as it came at a time when many citizens are facing economic and security challenges.
During his address, the President spoke about the rare overlap of Ramadan and the Christian season of Lent.
He said, “Ramadan coincides with Lent, reminding us of our common commitment to sacrifice, discipline, prayer, and self-denial.”
According to him, both seasons carry similar lessons for Nigerians of different faiths. Furthermore, he stressed that the spirit of fasting should reflect love and unity.
“We start this Ramadan with all the teaching that it brings to us all. But the main principle is to do good to people, to share love and faith, and to forgive sins,” he said.
The President added that fasting should not be limited to avoiding food and drink. Instead, he noted that it must reflect kindness, forgiveness, and good deeds. In addition, he encouraged citizens to show compassion to one another.
Meanwhile, Tinubu urged Nigerians across religious lines to pray for peace in the country. He called for support in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and insecurity. These issues, he said, require unity and collective effort.
