African leaders have shared Christmas messages that offered an optimistic outlook and urged tolerance, with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu vowing to defend Nigerians of all faiths from religious-related violence.
“I stand committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect Christians, Muslims, and all Nigerians from violence,” President Bola Tinubu said in a social media post.
“No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith.”
The Nigerian president said his meetings this year with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country will inform his government’s response to concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity in the country .
“We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence,” he said.
Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, who will be seeking a seventh term in January’s presidential election, used his Christmas message to assure a brighter future even as he acknowledged poverty among some Ugandans.
“Yes, there is still poverty among the 30% still outside the money economy, but the way out for them is well laid out and the resources to support the process are available and up-scalable,” he said.
“The future is bright. Let us pray for peace in the whole of Africa and more economic and political integration in Africa to continue to solve the problem of markets for our products and services and strategic security.”
South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile encouraged South Africans to show kindness and compassion over the Christmas period.
“As we celebrate, let us treasure the gift of family, friendship, and community. Speak kindness, extend compassion, and rebuild the bonds that hold our society together,” he said.
“In 2026, we will continue to advance inclusive development, strengthen service delivery, support livelihoods, and expand opportunities for our youth.”
Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema urged citizens to channel the spirit of the festive season to show unity and reconciliation with loved ones.
“Let us spend this time with our families, friends and loved ones, to pray together, give thanks and appreciate the grace God has shown our nation,” he said.
“May this Christmas renew in us the spirit of compassion, humility and unity. May it strengthen our resolve to build a peaceful and prosperous Zambia.”
Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa recounted the achievements of his government this year, but said more hard work lies ahead. He also urged Zimbabweans to be wary of flash floods, drowning and traffic accidents in the ongoing rainy season.
Ghana’s leader John Mahama, who is celebrating the first Christmas after being sworn in January 2025 for a second term, laid emphasis on his government’s “commitment to position Ghana on a path of inclusive growth, job creation, accountability and prosperity.”
Kenya’s President William Ruto called for road safety during the Christmas period that is traditionally characterised by travels upcountry for family gatherings.
“Let's drive carefully, avoid unnecessary losses… As we celebrate, let us cherish one another and the blessings that unite us as one nation,” Ruto said.
