From time to time, I reflect on the cherished memories from my youth in Delta State. During my service in Asaba as a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) between 1992 and 1993—where the community was predominantly Christian—faith was demonstrated with dignity, confidence, and mutual respect. Our religious practices were not superficial; we embraced them wholeheartedly, openly, and without fear.
In the holy month of Ramadan, we engaged in Islamic outreach throughout rural areas. It was a time filled with purpose and dedication, led by Kabir Alabi Garba, who was then the President of the Muslim Corpers Association of Nigeria (MCAN) in Delta State.
Among the active participants was Comrade Muhammad Haruna Ibrahim, who currently serves as the National President of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), alongside Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara, a veteran federal lawmaker.
We journeyed from village to village, distributing copies of the Holy Qur'an, and I vividly remember the wonder of villagers encountering it for the first time. Some even endearingly referred to it as the 'Hausa Bible.' Many were fascinated by the musical flow of Yusuf Ali's English translation, and some individuals willingly converted to Islam, driven by genuine conviction rather than coercion.
One particularly touching memory is from Sallah day when the late Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Highness Prof. Chike Edozien, graciously hosted a feast for Muslim corps members. He welcomed us with warmth, providing a table laden with delicious foods, including luxurious wines. Although alcohol is prohibited in Islam, we handled the situation with grace and maturity.
We enjoyed his hospitality while remaining true to our faith. There was no tension, outrage, or sensational commentary. During that time—before smartphones and social media negativity—the essence of life was shaped by civility and coexistence. Inter-ethnic marriages among corps members were commonplace and celebrated, offering a stark contrast to the current atmosphere three decades later.
These days, even a benign opinion can spark such acute hostility that one can often deduce someone's background merely from their name. The ethno-religious divides are so pronounced that some individuals dream of segregation, as if breaking apart will somehow create peace. The dire consequences of such divisions can be witnessed in regions like Kaduna and Jos, where once-friendly communities are now separated by invisible barriers.
Yet, at this very moment, Muslims and Christians worldwide are participating in their respective sacred seasons—Ramadan and Lent. Over three billion individuals are engaged in prayer, fasting, and repentance during this time. Though separated by doctrine, there exists a unified human desire: to seek closeness to the Creator through discipline and sacrifice.
Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, signifies the revelation of the Holy Qur'an to Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Meanwhile, Lent is a forty-day Christian observance leading to Easter, commemorating Jesus Christ's fasting and temptation in the wilderness.
Muslims fast from dawn (Suhoor) until sunset (Iftar), refraining from food, drink, and negative behavior. Christians engage in fasting, charitable donations, and abstinence, starting with Ash Wednesday, which serves as a solemn reminder of human frailty and the need for repentance.
The month of Ramadan aims to cultivate Taqwa—God-consciousness—culminating in Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, preceding Eid al-Fitr. Conversely, Lent encourages believers towards Metanoia—a profound return to God—leading to a celebration of resurrection and hope during Easter. For followers of both faiths, fasting symbolizes purification rather than punishment. It removes distractions and enhances compassion for the less fortunate.
These traditions are grounded in a common prophetic legacy: Abraham fasted, Moses fasted, Jesus fasted, and Muhammad fasted. The unwavering message across the ages is that voluntary restraint fortifies the soul. The body serves as a conduit to the Divine.
Interfaith harmony does not necessitate doctrinal uniformity. Instead, it calls for mutual recognition of sincerity. Ramadan and Lent are not adversaries; they are companions—two rivers flowing towards the same vast ocean of Divine Mercy.
As the Qur'an states: "O humanity! Indeed, We created you from one man and one woman and made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another" (Qur'an 49:13). Similarly, the Bible says: "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12).
If we can embody the humility of fasting, the empathy nurtured through hunger, and the discipline of prayer beyond our places of worship, perhaps we can rediscover the Nigeria I knew in 1992—a nation where faith fostered connections instead of divisions. Ramadan and Lent beckon us to embrace this possibility once again.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!