No Nigerian should suffer for practising their faith, says Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to uphold religious tolerance and coexistence, insisting that no citizen should face persecution for practising their faith.

In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message, the president called on all Nigerians to reflect on the values of love, peace, and compassion exemplified by Jesus Christ.

He noted that these principles must guide interactions across religious divides in the country.

Tinubu reiterated his administration’s steadfast commitment — since assuming office in 2023 — to safeguarding national security, unity, and stability under the constitution.

“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.

“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.”

Tinubu said there are ongoing engagements with leaders from Nigeria’s two major faiths to address concerns over religious intolerance and insecurity.

The president pledged to build on these dialogues for stronger government-religious collaboration to prevent conflict and foster coexistence.

Highlighting the importance of interfaith harmony, the president noted that the nation’s shared values of love for God and humanity must continue to bind citizens together as one indivisible people.

“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,” he said.

“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 commended Christians for their contributions to national development, particularly through acts of care for the vulnerable and promotion of peace in communities.