President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to religious freedom, stating that no Nigerian should suffer for their faith.
President Tinubu urged Nigerians, particularly Christians, to embrace peace and tolerance as they celebrate Christmas — the birth of Jesus Christ on Thursday, December 25, 2025.
He made these remarks in his Christmas goodwill message on Wednesday.
“My Fellow Nigerians, 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. Beyond the celebration and festivities of this season, Christmas reminds us to reflect on the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth and his message of salvation as the Prince of Peace.
“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 stated.
The President noted that the love of Christ and the message of the Gospel have inspired many Christians to care for the vulnerable and less privileged in society.
He expressed honour for those who follow the example of Jesus by working tirelessly to promote peace, harmony, and tolerance in their communities. He also encouraged those who bring hope and faith in the midst of despair, pointing out that the Christmas season is a reminder that, despite daunting challenges, God remains with His people.
He continued: “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. That commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. All Nigerians 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. The love for God and love for humanity is at the heart of all the great faiths. These shared values must continue to bind us together as one indivisible and resilient people of our blessed country.”
The President disclosed that throughout the year, he engaged with prominent leaders of the country’s two major faiths, particularly amid concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity.
He assured Nigerians that his administration would build on these engagements to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict, and promote peaceful coexistence.
As many Nigerians travel to reunite with family and loved ones during the holiday period, he advised citizens to exercise patience and maintain discipline on the roads, wishing all travellers safe journeys and safe returns.
The President expressed confidence in divine providence and the collective strength of Nigerians, stressing that his administration would continue working towards building a greater Nigeria — one that future generations would be proud of.
He further wished Christians and all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.
