President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace peace, religious tolerance and unity as Christians across the country celebrate Christmas.
In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message, the President said the season goes beyond festivities, noting that it offers an opportunity for reflection on the birth of Jesus Christ and his message of love, hope and salvation.
“As we mark this year’s Christmas, may the love of Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace and goodwill to humanity abide with us all,” Tinubu said.
He congratulated Christians in Nigeria and across the world, while offering prayers for peace in the country, particularly among people of different religious beliefs.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and ensuring the safety of Nigerians regardless of faith. According to him, no citizen should be persecuted for practising or professing their religion.
“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 stated.
Tinubu also acknowledged the role of Christians in Nigeria’s development, praising their contributions to nation-building, peace and care for the vulnerable.
“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,” he said, adding that those who promote harmony and tolerance deserve recognition.
Reflecting on his time in office, the President said his government remains resolute in safeguarding the country’s security, unity and stability.
“Since I assumed office in 2023, I have continually reassured Nigerians of our unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity and stability of our nation,” Tinubu noted, stressing that all Nigerians have the right to live, worship and pursue their aspirations in dignity.
He disclosed that the Federal Government has been engaging leaders of the country’s major faiths to address concerns around insecurity and religious intolerance, promising to strengthen collaboration to promote peaceful coexistence.
The President also appealed to Nigerians travelling for the holidays to exercise patience and obey traffic rules, wishing them 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,” he said.
Tinubu concluded by wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
