Lent and Ramadan started together for the first time in decades

Yesterday, February 18, was both Ash Wednesday and the first day of Ramadan. The last time that happened was 1991.

Nigeria is roughly split between both traditions. Millions of Christians began 40 days of fasting and reflection at the same moment millions of Muslims did the same.

The institutions that govern this country spend most of their energy separating Nigerians by region and religion. Yesterday, Nigerians separated themselves, by choice, in parallel, for reasons that have nothing to do with politics.

That's worth noting. Not everything the government touches.