The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has greeted Christians and Muslims across Nigeria as they commenced the sacred seasons of Lent and Ramadan, describing the periods as significant moments of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, sacrifice, and renewed commitment to faith, humanity, and peaceful coexistence.
In a press statement jointly issued by the ANA President and General Secretary, Usman Oladipo Akanbi and Dame Joan Oji, PhD., the association observed that Lent and Ramadan, though rooted in different religious traditions, share enduring values of compassion, charity, humility, and reconciliation.
According to it, these shared ideals are critical to national healing and unity, particularly at a time when collective understanding, ethical responsibility, and mutual respect are most needed in society.
ANA called on writers, artists, and cultural practitioners to draw inspiration from the lessons of these holy periods by promoting literature and creative expressions that foster dialogue, tolerance, and empathy among the nation’s diverse peoples.
The association reiterated that literature remains a powerful instrument for bridging divides and nurturing a sustainable culture of peace.
It further encouraged adherents to use the season to pray for the progress, stability, and prosperity of the country, while extending hands of fellowship to neighbours irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.
“Acts of kindness, generosity to the vulnerable, and commitment to justice, it noted, are practical ways of translating faith into nation-building,” it said.
ANA wished all Christians and Muslims a spiritually fulfilling Lenten and Ramadan experience and expressed hope that the lessons of sacrifice, renewal, and love embodied in these seasons would continue to guide citizens towards mutual respect, national unity, and a more humane and harmonious society.
