President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to uphold unity, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, saying his administration remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of citizens of all faiths.
In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message released on Wednesday, the President congratulated Christians in Nigeria and across the world, describing Christmas as a season for reflection on the birth of Jesus Christ and his message of peace, love and hope.
Tinubu said the celebration went beyond festivities, noting that the message of Christ as the Prince of Peace was particularly relevant at a time of national challenges.
He assured Nigerians that his government was committed to entrenching religious freedom and safeguarding people of different beliefs from violence.Tinubu said, “On this Holy Day, I wish all Christians in Nigeria and around the world a Merry Christmas. I thank God for the opportunity to serve as the leader of our great country, and I pray for peace in our land, especially among individuals of differing religious beliefs.
“As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence.
“As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us also reflect on the many contributions that Christians in Nigeria, as followers of Christ, have made and continue to make toward the progress of our country.”He said the love of Christ and the message of the Gospel had inspired many Nigerians to serve humanity selflessly, adding that their efforts deserved recognition.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to national security, unity and stability, stressing that all Nigerians had the right to live, worship and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.
According to him, no citizen should suffer discrimination or violence on the basis of ethnicity or religion, noting that love for God and humanity were shared values across faiths.
The President also disclosed that he had engaged leaders of the two major religions in the country throughout the year, particularly on concerns surrounding insecurity and religious intolerance.
He said the Federal Government would build on the engagements to strengthen collaboration with religious institutions, prevent conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence.
As Nigerians travel to celebrate the season with family and loved ones, Tinubu urged motorists to exercise patience and discipline on the roads, wishing travellers safe journeys.
“With confidence in divine providence and our collective strength, we will continue the work of building a greater Nigeria, one that future generations will be proud of.
“I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance,” the President stated.