As Christians all over the world celebrate Christmas in commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ, Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, has reaffirmed his commitment to promoting religious freedom and protecting people of different faiths in the country from violence.
In his 2025 Christmas Goodwill Message, President Tinubu noted that the season reminds the people of the need to reflect on the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth and his message of salvation for mankind.
The president, who wished all Christians in Nigeria and around the world a merry Christmas, prayed for peace in the country, especially among individuals of different 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,” Tinubu stated.
“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.
“The love of Christ and the message of the Gospel have inspired many Christians to care for the vulnerable and less privileged in our society. We honour those who, following the example of Jesus, work tirelessly to promote peace, harmony, and tolerance in their communities.
“For those who bring hope and faith in the midst of despair, this season is a reminder that, despite daunting challenges, God is with us.”
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Tinubu said since he assumed office in 2023, he has continued to reassure Nigerians of his administration’s unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of the nation.
He emphasised that all Nigerians, irrespective of religious group, have the right to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.
“No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith, Tinubu declared, adding that “The love for God and love for humanity is at the heart of all great faiths.
“These shared values must continue to bind us together as one indivisible and resilient people of our blessed country.”
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The Nigerian leader further stated that during the year, he engaged with leaders from the two major faiths in the country to address concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity. He said they would build on the conversations to strengthen collaboration between the government and religious institutions to prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.
The president urged Nigerians travelling to different destinations in this festive season to “exercise patience and maintain discipline on the roads.”
He expressed confidence that through divine providence and collective strength, the people would continue the work of building a greater Nigeria.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in mass communication.
