President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace peace, religious tolerance, and 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 celebrations and festivities, reminding citizens of the birth of Jesus Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace, and goodwill to humanity.
“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, describing Jesus Christ as the Prince of Peace whose life and teachings continue to inspire compassion and harmony.
The President congratulated Christians in Nigeria and globally, thanking God for the opportunity to serve as the nation’s leader. He also offered prayers for peace across the country, particularly among Nigerians of different religious beliefs.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or belief. He stressed that no citizen should suffer persecution for professing or practising 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 said.
The President praised the contributions of Christians to Nigeria’s development, noting that the teachings of Christ have inspired many to care for the vulnerable and less privileged. He commended individuals and groups working to promote peace, harmony, and tolerance in their communities.
Reflecting on the challenges facing the nation, Tinubu said Christmas serves as a reminder that hope remains alive even in difficult times, assuring Nigerians that God is with them despite daunting circumstances.
He reiterated that since assuming office in 2023, his government has remained committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s security, unity, and stability, in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The President also revealed that he has engaged with leaders of the country’s major faiths throughout the year to address concerns about insecurity and religious intolerance. According to him, these engagements will be strengthened to improve collaboration between government and religious institutions and to promote peaceful coexistence.
As Nigerians travel during the holiday season to reunite with family and loved ones, Tinubu appealed for patience and discipline on the roads, wishing travellers safe journeys and safe returns.
Expressing confidence in divine guidance and the collective strength of Nigerians, the President said the nation would continue its journey toward greatness.
“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.
President Tinubu concluded by wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.
