President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has renewed his pledge to safeguard religious freedom across Nigeria, assuring citizens that his administration remains firmly committed to protecting people of all faiths from violence, discrimination, and persecution.
In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message delivered on Wednesday, the President emphasized that national security, unity, and stability remain among the foremost responsibilities of his government.
Tinubu said his administration will continue to uphold the constitutional rights of Nigerians to live peacefully, practise their faith freely, and pursue their aspirations without fear, stressing that every citizen—regardless of religion or ethnic background—deserves safety, dignity, and equal protection 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,” he said.
The President noted that since assuming office in 2023, his administration has consistently reaffirmed its determination to safeguard Nigeria’s security, cohesion, and stability, adding that this commitment is rooted in faith in God and allegiance to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Tinubu cautioned that no Nigerian should suffer hardship or persecution for expressing or practising their religious beliefs, stressing that devotion to God and compassion for humanity are shared values across major faiths and should serve as a unifying force for the nation.
He disclosed that throughout the year, his administration has engaged in consultations with leaders of Nigeria’s major religious groups to address concerns over religious intolerance and insecurity, noting that such engagements will be strengthened to foster peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.
Extending his Christmas greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, the President offered prayers for lasting peace, particularly among communities of different religious beliefs, and encouraged Nigerians to reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ, whom he described as the Prince of Peace.
He also advised citizens travelling during the festive period to remain patient, law-abiding, and safety-conscious on the roads, while wishing them safe journeys to their destinations.
