President, Governors Urge Peace, Tolerance as Nigerians Celebrate Christmas
As Christians across Nigeria celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, President Bola Tinubu and state governors have called on citizens to embrace peace, unity, and religious tolerance.
In his Christmas message released on Wednesday, Tinubu stressed that no Nigerian should suffer or die because of their faith. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of all citizens to worship freely.
“No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising their faith. The love for God and humanity remains at the heart of all great religions, and these values must continue to bind us as one nation,” Tinubu said.
The President also highlighted ongoing engagement with leaders of Nigeria’s major religions to strengthen cooperation, prevent conflict, and promote peaceful coexistence. He paid tribute to Christians for their contributions to national development, urging Nigerians to draw inspiration from Christ’s message of compassion and service to the vulnerable.
Tinubu encouraged citizens to travel safely during the festive period and enter the new year with hope and collective determination to build a stronger nation.
Governors Highlight Love, Unity, and Development
State leaders also joined the call for peace and reflection. Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urged residents to embrace Christ-like values of love, unity, and selfless service. He highlighted progress under his administration in infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and social interventions, noting that the 2026 state budget prioritises inclusive development.
Similarly, Katsina Governor Mallam Dikko Radda, Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, Adamawa Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, Ondo Governor Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Sokoto Governor Ahmed Aliyu encouraged residents to uphold love, tolerance, and prayer for peace, highlighting both social and spiritual well-being during the festive season.
Labour Leaders Call for Unity, Justice
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) also extended greetings to workers, urging collective action against injustice, exploitation, and poor governance. NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasised tax justice, social equity, and protection of workers’ rights, calling on citizens to remain united and mobilised for a better Nigeria.
Former Leaders, Clergy Advocate Reflection and Compassion
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar urged Nigerians to use the season for healing, forgiveness, and national unity. Former presidential candidate Dr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, ex-House member Dr Farah Dagogo, and Anglican Bishop of Lagos Rt. Revd. Ifedola Okupevi also encouraged citizens to emulate Christ’s teachings of love, sacrifice, and service, despite socio-economic challenges.
Mixed Festive Experience Across Nigeria
Despite reports of lower food prices in many regions, many Nigerians still struggle to afford festive meals. In Sokoto, Edo, Gombe, and Benue, staples like rice, beans, garri, and vegetables remain partially accessible, but incomes and insecurity continue to limit celebrations. Adamawa and Taraba saw sharper price reductions, allowing modest festivities, while Abia and other states reported uneven affordability across different food items.
Farmers and traders noted improved harvests but stressed rising costs and production challenges. Many households adapted by reducing portions, choosing cheaper meals, or scaling back celebrations.
Across Nigeria, the festive season brings cautious optimism, with citizens grateful for some relief but aware of continuing economic pressures.
