President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace peace, religious tolerance and unity as Christians across the country and the world celebrate Christmas.
In his Christmas message, the President said the season goes beyond festivities, noting that it offers an opportunity to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and His message of salvation, hope and peace for humanity.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to allow the love of Christ and the values of grace, goodwill and harmony to guide their interactions, particularly among people of different religious beliefs.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and ensuring that no citizen suffers persecution on account of faith.
“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,” he said.
The President acknowledged the contributions of Christians to Nigeria’s growth and development, describing them as key drivers of compassion, social responsibility and national progress.
He praised individuals and faith-based groups who continue to care for the vulnerable and less privileged, inspired by the teachings of Christ.
Christmas message reassuring
According to him, the message of Christmas is particularly reassuring at a time when the country faces daunting challenges, reminding citizens that hope, faith and resilience remain essential to nation-building.
Tinubu also reiterated his administration’s resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s security, unity and stability.
He stressed that all Nigerians have the constitutional right to live, worship and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity, regardless of ethnicity or belief.
“No one should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith,” the President said, adding that love for God and humanity remains a common value shared across religions and must continue to bind Nigerians together.
He disclosed that his government has continued to engage leaders of the major faiths in the country to address concerns about insecurity and religious intolerance, with plans to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions to prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.
Expressing confidence in divine guidance and the collective strength of Nigerians, the President assured citizens of his commitment to building a greater nation that future generations would be proud of.
The president wished Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
