ABUJA – As Christians across Nigeria celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, President Bola Tinubu and state governors have issued festive messages centred on peace, tolerance, and national resilience. However, the celebrations have been marked by a stern warning from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) regarding the country’s controversial new tax reforms.
Tinubu Vows to Protect Religious Freedom
In his third Christmas address since taking office, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to religious harmony. Addressing the nation on Wednesday, the President declared that no citizen should face persecution or hardship based on their faith or ethnicity.
“Religious tolerance is a fundamental national value that unites our diverse population,” the President stated. “My commitment to ensuring every Nigerian can worship in safety and dignity remains steadfast under the Constitution.”
The President’s remarks follow recent international pressure. On 31 October 2025, the United States redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing threats to religious freedom, a claim the Nigerian government continues to contest through active engagement with faith leaders.
Governors Urge Compassion and Prayer
State leaders across the federation echoed the call for peace:
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Delta State: Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urged residents to emulate the selfless service of Christ, noting that the state’s 2026 budget will focus on healthcare and infrastructure to ensure “no community is left behind.”
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Katsina State: Governor Mallam Dikko Radda emphasised that unity is essential for national progress and promised to safeguard the rights of all worshippers.
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Bayelsa State: Governor Douye Diri encouraged residents to find strength in faith during times of grief, following the recent loss of his deputy.
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Sokoto & Adamawa: Governors Ahmed Aliyu and Ahmadu Fintiri both called for intensified prayers to bring an end to regional insecurity.
Labour Issues Festive Warning over “Unjust” Taxes
While the political class focused on unity, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, used his festive message to address the severe economic pressures facing the workforce.
While wishing workers a restful period, the NLC warned that the “hope of revival” depends on collective resistance against policies that induce hardship. The union specifically targeted the new tax laws scheduled for implementation on 1 January 2026.
The NLC’s Stance on Tax Reform:
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Rejection of Secrecy: The union stated that any tax system mired in “distortion or falsification” is unacceptable.
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Demand for Justice: Ajaero called for a progressive system where the wealthy pay their fair share and regressive burdens on workers are removed.
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Call for Inclusion: Labour insists that any tax legislation passed without the direct involvement of the working class is inherently “unjust.”
The union urged Nigerians to remain united across tribal and religious lines to form a “coalition of the righteous” against poor governance and exploitation.
Safety First
As millions of Nigerians travel to visit family, President Tinubu concluded his message by urging motorists to exercise “patience and discipline” on the roads to ensure a safe holiday season for all.
