President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and ensuring that no Nigerian suffers persecution because of their faith, as he delivered his 2025 Christmas goodwill message to Christians across the country and around the world.

In the message released on Tuesday, December 24, President Tinubu said his government remains firmly dedicated to upholding national unity, peaceful coexistence, and the constitutional right of all Nigerians to freely practise their religion without fear, intimidation, or violence. He stressed that religious differences must never be a source of division or conflict in Nigeria.

Tinubu disclosed that throughout the year, his administration has actively engaged prominent leaders from Nigeria’s two major religions—Christianity and Islam—particularly amid growing concerns over religious intolerance, insecurity, and allegations of targeted attacks against Christian communities in parts of the country. According to him, these engagements are aimed at strengthening collaboration between government and religious institutions to prevent conflict and foster mutual understanding.

The President said his government would build on these discussions to deepen cooperation with faith-based leaders, promote dialogue, and encourage peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of different religious backgrounds. He emphasised that the protection of religious freedom remains a key pillar of his administration’s governance agenda.

Extending Christmas greetings to Christians, Tinubu described the season as a period of reflection on the birth of Jesus Christ and His enduring message of love, peace, hope, and salvation. He noted that Christmas goes beyond celebrations and festivities, reminding humanity of Christ’s teachings as the Prince of Peace and a symbol of unity and compassion.

Tinubu thanked God for the opportunity to serve as Nigeria’s President and offered prayers for peace and harmony across the nation, particularly among people of different faiths. He reassured Nigerians that his government remains resolute in safeguarding the rights of all citizens to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.

“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,” Tinubu said, adding that no individual, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing or practising their faith.

The President also acknowledged the role of Christians in Nigeria’s social development, noting that Christian values have inspired acts of charity, care for the vulnerable, and efforts to promote peace, tolerance, and harmony in communities across the country. He commended individuals and groups who continue to work selflessly to support the less privileged and strengthen social cohesion.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to security and stability, Tinubu said his government has consistently reassured Nigerians of its determination to safeguard the nation’s unity since assuming office in 2023. He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, stating that collective strength, faith in God, and national solidarity would help overcome current challenges.

As Nigerians travel during the festive season, the President urged citizens to exercise patience, discipline, and caution on the roads, wishing all travellers safe journeys and peaceful celebrations. He concluded by expressing confidence that, with divine guidance and unity of purpose, Nigeria would continue progressing toward a future that coming generations would be proud of.