President Bola Tinubu has said that he remains committed to doing everything within his power to enshrine religious freedom in the country and to protect all people of different faiths from violence.
In his goodwill message to commemorate Christmas, the President recalled his reassurance since assuming office on 29 May 2023 to protect the rights of all citizens to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity
He said that his administration’s would continually safeguard the security, unity, and stability of the country.
The President further said: ‘No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith. 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.
‘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’.
He urged those travelling to reunite with their families and loved ones to exercise patience and maintain discipline on the roads.
‘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.
‘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 as the Prince of Peace’, President Tinubu further said.
He wished all Christians in the country and around the world a Merry Christmas, adding: “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.
‘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.
‘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. We honour those who, following the example of Jesus, work tirelessly to promote peace, harmony, and tolerance in their communities.
‘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’.
