President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting all faiths and promoting religious tolerance and harmony as Nigerians join the rest of the world in celebrating Christmas. In his Christmas message, the President said his government would deepen sustained engagement with leaders of Christianity and Islam to prevent conflict, address insecurity, and strengthen national unity and stability.
Tinubu acknowledged the contributions of Christian leaders and communities to national development, urging them to sustain their efforts in promoting peace, service, and social cohesion.
He noted that dialogue with religious leaders has remained central to his administration’s response to religious intolerance and insecurity, adding that such engagements would be expanded nationwide to reinforce peaceful coexistence.
The President’s message comes against the backdrop of heightened sensitivities around religion, marking the first Christmas since some religious leaders alleged genocide against Christians, claims the Federal Government denied, but which reportedly influenced the United States’ decision to classify Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.
Acknowledging complaints about insecurity and intolerance, Tinubu pledged to intensify collaboration with religious bodies. He said: “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.”
Describing Christmas as a solemn season beyond festivities, the President urged Nigerians to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and its enduring message of peace, grace, and goodwill to humanity. He prayed that “the love of Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace, and goodwill to humanity abide with us.”
Tinubu reaffirmed his constitutional responsibility to protect religious freedom and ensure that Nigerians of all faiths are free from violence and discrimination. He stressed: “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.”
The President said his pledge to guarantee security, unity, and stability since assuming office in 2023 “remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” insisting that no citizen should suffer for practising their faith.
He noted that love for God and humanity are shared values across all major religions and should continue to bind Nigerians together as one people, adding that Christian teachings have inspired many Nigerians to serve society selflessly and care for the vulnerable.
Commending individuals and groups who continue to spread hope amid hardship, Tinubu said the Christmas season is a reminder that, despite challenges, God remains with the nation.
On security and travel, the President urged Nigerians to exercise patience and discipline on the roads during the festive period, wishing travellers safe journeys and returns.
Expressing optimism about Nigeria’s future, Tinubu said that with faith in divine providence and collective national strength, the country would continue on a path of renewal, assuring that his administration remains focused on building a more united and prosperous nation for future generations.