President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace peace, religious tolerance and national unity as Christians across the country and around the world celebrate Christmas.
In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message released on Wednesday, the President said the season goes beyond festivities, serving as a reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace and goodwill to humanity.
Tinubu congratulated Christians on the occasion and prayed for peace in Nigeria, particularly among people of different religious beliefs. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and ensuring the safety of Nigerians of all faiths.
“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 significant contributions of Christians to Nigeria’s development, noting that the love of Christ and the message of the Gospel have inspired many to care for the vulnerable and less privileged, as well as to promote peace, harmony and tolerance in their communities.
Reflecting on the nation’s challenges, Tinubu said the Christmas season offers hope and reassurance that God remains with the country despite difficult times.
He reiterated his administration’s resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s security, unity and stability, stressing that all Nigerians have the 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 shared values of love for God and humanity across all major religions must continue to bind Nigerians together as one people.
Tinubu also disclosed that he had engaged with leaders of the country’s two major faiths during the year, especially on issues of religious intolerance and insecurity, pledging to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions to prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.
As Nigerians travel for the holidays, the President urged citizens to exercise patience and discipline on the roads, wishing travellers safe journeys and returns.
He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying that with faith in divine providence and collective effort, the country would continue on the path of building a nation future generations would be proud of.
Tinubu concluded by wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.
