As Muslims, Christians start seasons of fasting – Provost calls for reflection

By Ayantunde Ayangbayi

Millions of Muslims and Christians all over the world commenced fasting today Wednesday 18th February, 2026 marking a period of fasting, prayers, repentance and renewed spiritual devotion.

The Provost of Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, Elder Benjamin Ayanshola, JP, has admonished the two prominent faiths to reflect on their religion and show more renewed spiritual devotion during and after the fasting season.

He urged Muslims to use the Holy month to pray for national peace, unity and improved security.

Ramadan requires Muslims to fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink and other physical needs, while placing strong emphasis on charity, self-discipline and spiritual purification.

Meanwhile, Christians across the globe have entered the season of lent, a 40-day period of solemn reflection marked by prayers, fasting and almsgiving, culminating in Easter Sunday. The season began with the observance of Ash Wednesday.

The college administrator called on both Christians and Muslims to abstain from hate, harmful and offensive speech within and outside the College Community. He described restraint in language(s) as a practical but often overlooked form of fasting.

The gentleman personality stressed that Lent offers an opportunity for deep spiritual renewal, urging believers to embrace humility, justice and compassion.

He urged Christians to “disarm their language(s),” avoid rash judgement and cultivate kindness in houses, workplaces, places of worship, social media platform and political discourse.

As both faith embark on their respective sacred journey of Ramadan and Lent this year stands as a powerful reminder of reflection, sacrifice, discipline and hope in a world yearning for peace, social justice and good governance.

“May this be a season of transformation, where our heart grows softer, our prayers grow stronger, and our faith grows deeper (IJMN), Amen,” Elder Ayanshola, JP concluded.