President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom across Nigeria, assuring citizens that people of all faiths will continue to enjoy safety, dignity and equal protection under the law.
He said ensuring national security, unity and stability remains one of the most important duties of his government.
In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message delivered on Wednesday, the President said his administration would consistently defend the constitutional rights of Nigerians to live in peace, practise their faith freely and pursue their aspirations without fear or discrimination.
According to him, every Nigerian, regardless of religion or ethnic background, deserves protection, respect and fairness under the law.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President recalled that since assuming office in 2023, his government has consistently reassured Nigerians of its determination to safeguard the nation’s security, cohesion and stability.
He explained that this resolve is anchored on faith in God and loyalty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Tinubu warned that no Nigerian should suffer persecution, intimidation or hardship because of their religious beliefs, noting that love for God and compassion for humanity are shared values across all major religions and should unite the country rather than divide it.
He disclosed that throughout the year, he had engaged leaders of Nigeria’s major religious bodies in response to rising concerns over intolerance and insecurity, adding that such consultations would be intensified to strengthen collaboration between government and faith-based institutions in promoting peace and preventing conflict.
While extending Christmas greetings to Christians at home and abroad, the President prayed for enduring peace in Nigeria, particularly among communities of different religious beliefs.
He urged Nigerians to reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ, whom he described as the Prince of Peace.
Tinubu also advised citizens travelling during the festive season to exercise patience and obey traffic regulations, while wishing them safe journeys.
What you should know
President Tinubu’s Christmas message reinforces his administration’s stance on religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
By highlighting constitutional protections, interfaith dialogue and collaboration with religious leaders, the President seeks to reassure citizens amid concerns about insecurity and intolerance.
His remarks underline the government’s broader commitment to unity, stability and respect for diversity as essential foundations for national development and harmony.
