Nigeria reaffirms commitment to protection of all faith communities

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom, peaceful coexistence and national unity. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, said this in his Christmas message to Nigerians in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, on Thursday. He extended warm Christmas […]

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom, peaceful coexistence and national unity.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, said this in his Christmas message to Nigerians in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, on Thursday.

He extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians in Nigeria and the diaspora, while reaffirming the government’s enduring commitment to religious freedom, peaceful coexistence, and national unity.

The Minister described the season as a time of reflection, compassion, and renewal, underscoring values that resonate deeply with Nigeria’s diverse religious and cultural heritage.

He noted that Christmas offers an opportunity to recommit to dialogue, mutual respect, and shared responsibility in safeguarding peace and stability within communities.

Ambassador Tuggar emphasised that Nigeria will continue to strengthen its institutions to protect all religious adherents, ensure social cohesion, and promote harmonious coexistence across the country. He reaffirmed that the safety, dignity, and rights of Nigerians of all faiths, both at home and in the diaspora, remain a priority of government policy and diplomatic engagement.

“The Nigerian state is founded on the principle of freedom of worship and mutual respect among its people,” the Minister stated. “We are resolute in reinforcing our institutions to uphold these values, deepen interfaith understanding, and ensure that no citizen is excluded or marginalised on account of belief.”

As Nigerians mark the Christmas season, Ambassador Tuggar called on citizens to embrace unity, patience, and hope, stressing that the country’s strength lies in its diversity and shared destiny.