Babajide Sanwo-Olu has extended goodwill messages to Muslims and Christians on the commencement of the holy seasons of Ramadan and Lent, urging residents to use the fasting period to seek God’s face in prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Lagos State governor congratulated Christians and Muslims, describing the fasting seasons as spiritually significant periods that promote abstinence, self-discipline, humility, and total submission to the will of God.

“I congratulate Lagosians and Nigerians, especially Christians and Muslims, on the commencement of this year’s Lent and Ramadan. These sacred seasons teach abstinence from worldly pleasures, steadfastness in prayers, and total submission to God,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor described the coincidence of both religious observances beginning around the same time as divine orchestration for peace and stability in Nigeria and the world.

“As we observe Lent and Ramadan, I urge Lagosians and Nigerians to be more steadfast in prayers against evil occurrences in our land and to seek continued peace, unity, and stability in Lagos State and Nigeria at large,” he added.

Meanwhile, speaking at a pre-Ramadan prayer on Tuesday, Sanwo-Olu said Ramadan deepens accountability in public service and reinforces values such as patience, discipline, empathy, and selflessness, which he described as essential to building a Greater Lagos.

“For those of us in public service, Ramadan deepens our consciousness of accountability—not only to the people we serve, but ultimately to Almighty Allah. It reminds us that true leadership is measured not by power, but by compassion and service,” he said.

The governor, who was represented by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to inclusive policies that uplift the vulnerable, support families, empower youths, strengthen interfaith harmony, and preserve peaceful coexistence in the state.

He also called on religious and community leaders to continue guiding young people toward responsible citizenship and encouraged eligible youths to participate peacefully in the democratic process.

“As we approach another electoral season, I seek your prayers that our elections remain peaceful and orderly, and that the unity and stability we have built together are preserved,” the governor said.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Home Affairs commended the governor for promoting religious harmony, noting that the annual pre-Ramadan prayer has become an enduring platform for spiritual preparation and unity.

The first lecture, delivered by Sheikh Dr. Qasim Ajape, described Ramadan as a transformative institution, likening it to a spiritual school that begins with Tarawih prayers and culminates at Eid-el-Fitr. He urged Muslims to deepen their devotion through charity, zakat, community iftar, and righteous living.

The second lecture by Sheikh Sadullah Ballo portrayed Ramadan as a reflection of Islam’s principles of peace, discipline, and justice, encouraging Muslims to purify their hearts and renew their commitment to good deeds.