President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and religious tolerance as Christians across the country celebrate Christmas, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives, freedoms and national cohesion.
In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message released on Wednesday, Tinubu said the season goes beyond celebrations, urging citizens to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and his message of grace, hope and peace.
“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,” the President said.
He extended warm greetings to Christians in Nigeria and around the world, thanking God for the opportunity to serve as President and offering prayers for peace, particularly among people of different religious beliefs.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
The President reassured Nigerians of his administration’s resolve to uphold religious freedom and prevent violence linked to faith or ethnicity.
“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.
Tinubu also acknowledged the contributions of Christians to Nigeria’s development, noting that the teachings of Christ have inspired compassion, service and social harmony.
“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,” he said.
Reflecting on the nation’s challenges, the President expressed optimism, saying Christmas is a reminder of divine presence even in difficult times.
“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,” he noted.
Tinubu reiterated that since assuming office in 2023, his government has remained focused on safeguarding Nigeria’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. That commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
He stressed that all Nigerians have the right to live, worship and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.
“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 President declared.
According to him, shared values across all faiths should continue to unite the country.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He also disclosed that his administration has engaged leaders of the country’s major religions to address concerns over intolerance and insecurity, pledging to deepen collaboration.
“Throughout the year, I have had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country… We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence,” he added.
As Nigerians travel during the festive period, the President urged patience and discipline on the roads.
“As many Nigerians travel to reunite with family and loved ones during this holiday period, I urge all citizens to exercise patience and maintain discipline on the roads. I wish all travellers a safe journey and a safe return to their destinations,” he said.
Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s future, Tinubu called for collective commitment to nation-building.
“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.
He concluded by wishing Nigerians a joyful celebration and a prosperous year ahead, adding, “I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.”
