Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the diaspora, while reaffirming the Federal Government’s enduring commitment to religious freedom, peaceful coexistence, and national unity. This was contained in a statement signed by Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, to the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs.
According to the message, in his Christmas message, 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 emphasized 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 marginalized 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.
He concluded by wishing Christians in Nigeria and around the world a peaceful Christmas and a New Year filled with good health, renewed purpose, and collective progress for the nation.
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