By BONIFACE AKARAH

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and promoting peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, saying no citizen should suffer for practising his or her faith.

Tinubu made the pledge in his 2025 Christmas goodwill message released on Tuesday, December 24, 2025, as Christians across the country marked the celebration.

“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.

The President stressed that all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity or belief, have the constitutional right to live, worship and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.

“No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith,” he said.

Tinubu said Christmas was not only a season of celebration but also a time to reflect on the message of Jesus Christ, whom he described as the Prince of Peace.

“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,” he said.

The President commended Nigerian Christians for their contributions to national development, noting that many had been inspired by their faith to care for the vulnerable and promote peace in their communities.

“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,” Tinubu said.

He also assured Nigerians that his government remained committed to safeguarding the country’s unity and stability, reiterating promises he made upon assuming office in 2023.

“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.

Tinubu revealed that he had engaged religious leaders from the country’s major faiths during the year, particularly against the backdrop of concerns over insecurity and religious intolerance.

“Throughout the year, I have had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country,” he said, adding that the engagements would be strengthened to “prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.”

The President also urged Nigerians travelling during the holiday season to exercise patience and discipline on the roads, wishing them safe journeys.

“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,” Tinubu said.

He concluded by expressing optimism about the country’s future, saying Nigeria would continue the task of building a nation future generations would be proud of, while wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.

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