Christmas messages: Tinubu, govs preach unity, NLC rejects unfair taxation
Christmas 2025: Tinubu, Governors, NLC Urge Peace, Unity and Tax Justice for Nigerians
As Christians across Nigeria and around the world marked the birth of Jesus Christ, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, labour leaders and prominent Nigerians delivered strong messages centred on peace, unity, justice and collective responsibility amid ongoing economic and security challenges.
In his Christmas address to the nation, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to religious tolerance, stressing that no Nigerian should suffer, be discriminated against or die because of their faith. According to the President, religious freedom remains a core national value that binds Nigerians together despite ethnic and religious diversity.
“No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith,” Tinubu said, adding that love for God and love for humanity are shared values across all faiths and must continue to unite the country.
The President’s message comes at a time of renewed international attention on Nigeria’s religious freedom record. Despite this scrutiny, Tinubu assured Nigerians that his government remains unwavering in protecting the constitutional rights of all citizens to worship freely and live in dignity and safety.
He further disclosed ongoing engagements with leaders of Nigeria’s major religions to strengthen cooperation, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence, describing religious freedom as a fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s collective identity.
Governors Call for Love, Unity and Christ-like Living
Across the states, governors echoed similar messages of peace, tolerance and compassion. Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, urged residents to embrace love, unity and the virtues of sacrifice and selfless service exemplified by Jesus Christ, noting that these values are essential for sustainable development and peaceful coexistence.
Oborevwori highlighted progress recorded under his administration in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, agriculture and security, assuring residents that the 2026 Delta State budget prioritises inclusive growth and community development.
Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Radda, extended Christmas greetings to Christians and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting their rights and freedom of worship. Similarly, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, urged residents to draw strength from God’s word, especially in moments of grief and national difficulty.
Governors in Adamawa, Ondo and Sokoto states also called on Nigerians to uphold love, tolerance and peaceful coexistence while praying for improved security and national stability.
NLC Pushes for Unity and Tax Justice
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), through its President, Joe Ajaero, used the Christmas season to renew calls for unity, social justice and fair taxation. In his goodwill message, Ajaero warned against unjust and distorted tax laws, stressing that any fiscal policy that excludes workers from its formulation remains unacceptable.
“Our hope is not passive. It is built on a concrete foundation: our collective power and the action that it can potentiate,” Ajaero stated, urging Nigerians to resist divisions along tribal, religious or regional lines.
The labour union emphasised that true celebration lies in collective action against corruption, exploitation, insecurity and poor governance. It called for tax justice where the wealthy pay their fair share, while regressive taxation that burdens ordinary citizens is removed.
The NLC further urged Nigerians to enter 2026 with renewed commitment to unity, organisation and mobilisation, stressing that workers’ strength lies in their numbers and solidarity.
Food Prices Drop, But Many Nigerians Still Struggle
Despite reports of falling food prices in several parts of the country this festive season, many Nigerians say limited income and rising production costs have dampened Christmas celebrations. From Sokoto to Edo, families are celebrating modestly, adjusting meals and cutting costs despite improved availability of staples such as rice, beans and garri.
In states like Adamawa, Taraba and Benue, residents reported significant drops in food prices, offering some relief to households. However, farmers and traders lament losses linked to falling market prices and rising costs of inputs, while insecurity continues to disrupt farming activities in some regions.
Across Nigeria, the mood remains cautiously optimistic. While cheaper food has eased some pressure, many families say financial constraints still shape how the season is observed.
Calls for National Healing and Collective Action
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, traditional rulers, religious leaders and former lawmakers also urged Nigerians to use the Christmas season as a time for healing, forgiveness and renewed national unity. They encouraged citizens to embody the values of love, sacrifice and compassion in their daily lives and interactions.
As Nigeria looks toward 2026, the recurring message from leaders and citizens alike is clear: peace, unity, justice and collective action remain essential to overcoming the nation’s challenges and building a stronger, more inclusive future.
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