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- Vows no one should suffer for professing faith
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has pledged to protect religious freedom across Nigeria, declaring that “no one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith.”
In a Christmas goodwill message he personally signed and released yesterday, Tinubu framed the Christmas season as a call to enshrine peace and tolerance, invoking Christ’s message amid rising concerns over religious intolerance and insecurity.
“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 said, urging reflection on Jesus as the “Prince of Peace.”
The President reaffirmed his administration’s steadfast commitment since taking office in 2023: “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 stressed universal rights, stating, “All Nigerians have the right to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.”
Tinubu highlighted shared values binding the nation: “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.”
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He revealed proactive interfaith efforts, 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.
“We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.”
Praising Christians’ role in fostering harmony, he said: “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.”
Tinubu honoured their service: “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.”
He also reassured on national security: “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. That commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Amid holiday travels, Tinubu urged road safety: “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. I wish all travellers a safe journey and a safe return to their destinations.”
Closing with optimism, he affirmed: “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. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.”
