President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Nigerian Christians to pray for the unity of the country which he believes is a divine arrangement that should not be jeopardised.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, on Wednesday, February 14, 2018, the president said Christians should be concerned with the country's unity and progress as they celebrate Ash Wednesday which marks the beginning of 40 days of fasting.

The statement read, "President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with Christians in Nigeria on the solemn occasion of the commencement of this year's Lenten season.

"As they join their counterparts worldwide to emulate the worthy example of Jesus Christ who fasted 40 days at the beginning of His earthly ministry, the President urges Christian brothers and sisters to pray fervently for the country's unity and progress.

"He believes that Nigeria's existence as one united country is a divine arrangement and nothing should be done to put it asunder.

"President Buhari enjoins all Nigerians to intensify love, brotherliness and concern for the less privileged members of their communities in order to strengthen the bond of togetherness.

"As Christians begin the period of increased prayers, piety, sacrifice and selfless services, the President wishes them and all Nigerians well."

Buhari mourns 21 dead students

Earlier on Tuesday, February 13, the president sent his condolence to the government of Bauchi State over the death of 21 students and teachers of Government Day Junior Secondary School, Misau in Bauchi.

The students and three teachers died on Tuesday in a fatal automobile accident on their way from Kano after an excursion trip.

The bus conveying the victims collided head-on with an articulated vehicle along Kano-Gaya road in Kano, resulting in the death of 11 male and 10 female students, as well as their teachers.

The President prayed to Allah to accept the souls of the deceased and forgive their sins.