In a significant gesture of religious harmony, Senate President Godswill Akpabio hosted an interfaith breakfast and special Iftar at his Abuja residence on Tuesday night, bringing together lawmakers and staff from across the faith spectrum.
The gathering served as a symbolic bridge between Nigeria’s two major religions, as the event coincided with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Christian season of Lent.
Participants at the event praised the Senate President for the “thoughtful initiative,” noting that breaking fast together in a shared space reflects the core values of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Legislators present highlighted that while Muslim senators are observing the fast of Ramadan, their Christian counterparts are currently observing Lent. The joint meal was described as a testament to the “spirit of brotherhood” that transcends political and religious boundaries within the National Assembly.
The hosting of the Iftar was lauded not just as a social event, but as a spiritually meritorious act.
Religious Merit: Attendees noted that in Islamic tradition, providing sustenance to those fasting is a noble deed, with prayers offered for the Senate President to receive “abundant rewards” for the gesture.
Institutional Bonding: Beyond the religious significance, the evening provided a rare informal setting to strengthen the working relationships between Senators and the dedicated staff of the National Assembly.
The evening concluded with a focused session of interfaith prayer directed toward the stability and progress of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The delegation specifically offered prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking for continued wisdom, physical strength, and good health as he leads the nation’s developmental agenda. The participants ended the night with a collective plea for Almighty Allah to maintain national unity, ensuring a future of prosperity for all Nigerians.
