Tag: Christians

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered a Christmas message to Nigerian Christians for the 2025 celebration, appealing for unity, tolerance, and compassion across the country. The message, released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Christmas as a season that reflects values capable of strengthening national cohesion. Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to show love to one another, assist the less privileged, and maintain peaceful relations across religious and ethnic divides. In his address, the President wrote, “My Fellow Nigerians, 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.” He stressed that the season goes beyond festivities, noting, “Christmas reminds us to reflect on the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth and his message of salvation as the Prince of Peace.” Extending goodwill to Christians at home and abroad, Tinubu said, “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.” The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to freedom of worship, stating, “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 acknowledged the impact of Christians on national development, writing, “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.” Highlighting acts of charity and service, Tinubu added, “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.” He also praised peace advocates, saying, “We honour those who, following the example of Jesus, work tirelessly to promote peace, harmony, and tolerance in their communities.” Reflecting on governance and security, the President stated, “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 added that this resolve “remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” Emphasizing equality and safety for all citizens, Tinubu said, “All Nigerians have the 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.” Calling for national unity, he wrote, “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.” The President also revealed ongoing engagement with religious leaders, noting, “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.” He assured that the government would continue to work with faith institutions to “strengthen collaboration, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.” As Nigerians travel during the festive season, Tinubu urged caution, saying, “I urge all citizens to exercise patience and maintain discipline on the roads.” He added, “I wish all travellers a safe journey and a safe return to their destinations.” Concluding his message, the President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, stating, “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 ended with, “I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.”