President, Bola Tinubu has dismissed claims of religious persecution in Nigeria, assuring citizens that they are free to practise their faith without fear or discrimination.
He gave the reassurance on Wednesday in his 2025 Christmas goodwill message to Nigerians, a statement he personally signed to mark the celebration.
The reassurance comes against the backdrop of tensions that followed the designation of Nigeria by the United States as a Country of Particular Concern last November over allegations of genocide against Christians, a move attributed to comments by US President Donald Trump and which nearly strained diplomatic relations between both countries.
Tinubu said the narrative of religious persecution in Nigeria was false and insisted that his administration remained committed to protecting Nigerians of all faiths.
“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 said.
He stressed that no citizen should be targeted or marginalised on the basis of belief, ethnicity or religious practice, adding that the Constitution guarantees the right of all Nigerians to live, worship and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.
Reflecting on the significance of Christmas, Tinubu said the birth of Jesus Christ was a reminder of peace, love and goodwill, values he noted were shared across all major religions.
“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 stated.
Tinubu also acknowledged the contributions of Christians to national development, noting that the teachings of Christ had inspired many to care for the vulnerable and promote harmony within their communities.
He said his administration had consistently engaged religious leaders across faiths to strengthen cooperation between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.
“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, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence,” he said.
On security, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the unity and stability of the country, stressing that his government’s resolve remained firm under God and the Constitution.
He also urged Nigerians travelling during the festive season to exercise patience and discipline on the roads, wishing them safe journeys and safe returns.
“With confidence in divine providence and our collective strength, we will continue the work of building a greater Nigeria that future generations will be proud of,” Tinubu added, wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.
