President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace peace, love and unity as they celebrate Christmas, assuring citizens of his administration’s continued commitment to religious freedom, national security and peaceful coexistence across the country.
In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message to the nation, President Tinubu described the season as a time not only for celebration but also for reflection on the deeper meaning of the birth of Jesus Christ and His enduring message 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,” the President said.
He noted that Christmas offers an opportunity for Nigerians to look beyond festivities and reflect on the spiritual significance of the season.
According to him, the birth of Jesus Christ remains a powerful reminder of peace, salvation and compassion.
“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,” he said.
President Tinubu extended warm greetings to Christians in Nigeria and around the world, expressing gratitude to God for the privilege of leading the country at a critical time in its history.
“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,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to protecting fundamental rights, the President assured Nigerians that his government remains determined to uphold religious freedom and protect citizens 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.
He paid tribute to Christians across the country for their contributions to national development, describing their role in social care, community service and nation-building as invaluable.
“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 said.
President Tinubu praised the compassion and selflessness demonstrated by many Christian individuals and organisations, particularly in caring for the poor and vulnerable.
“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.
The President acknowledged the challenges facing the nation but encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful, stressing that faith provides strength 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 said.
Restating his administration’s core priorities, Tinubu said his government remains focused on safeguarding the country’s 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,” he said.
He emphasised that this commitment is rooted in both divine guidance and constitutional responsibility.
“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,” he said.
The President condemned all forms of religious persecution, insisting that no Nigerian should suffer discrimination or violence because of their beliefs.
“No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith,” he said.
According to him, shared values across all religions should serve as a unifying force for the nation.
“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,” he said.
President Tinubu disclosed that he has engaged religious leaders throughout the year to address concerns about intolerance and insecurity, promising to strengthen collaboration with faith-based institutions.
“Throughout the year, I have had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country, particularly amid concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity. We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence,” he said.
The President appealed for caution and responsible conduct 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,” he said.
President Tinubu expressed confidence in the nation’s collective strength and divine guidance.
“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.
