By Achile Danjuma
President Bola Tinubu on Monday evening hosted Christian and Muslim leaders, along with traditional rulers, for an interfaith iftar dinner at the State House in Abuja, reinforcing the spirit of national unity during this period of simultaneous religious observances.
The breaking of fast, which commenced at 7:00 p.m. at the Presidential Banquet Hall, brought together prominent religious figures and monarchs from various states. The gathering symbolically bridges the observance of Ramadan by Muslims and the Lenten period observed by Christians.
Guests, who arrived at the forecourt of the State House in a convoy of white coaster buses, were received at the venue. The attendance underscored the broad-based engagement of the administration with key societal stakeholders.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and several other top government officials were also present at the dinner.
The interfaith iftar is part of President Tinubu’s annual tradition during the holy month of Ramadan. Earlier in the month, the President hosted similar gatherings with state governors and members of the National Assembly. During those meetings, he reiterated the urgency of establishing state police as a key item on the national agenda.
According to the presidency, the current series of iftar dinners is expected to continue, with future events scheduled to host members of the diplomatic corps and other critical stakeholders before the conclusion of Ramadan.
Muslims are currently observing the last ten days of Ramadan, a period considered highly sacred that includes the Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr). Concurrently, Christians continue their Lenten fast, which leads up to the Easter celebration.