President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to support and pray for him and other political leaders to succeed.

In his 20204 Christmas message on Tuesday, Mr Tinubu also urged Nigerians to support people in need and honour the nation’s troops.

“Let us extend similar support and prayers to our nation’s leaders. With your backing, we can serve our country diligently and strive for prosperity,” said Mr Tinubu.

He added, “Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future. In the spirit of this season, let us renew our hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria.”

The president also sympathised with the families of stampede victims in Ibadan, Anambra, and Abuja and urged Nigerians to extend kindness to themselves this season.

Mr Tinubu’s call for prayers from Nigerians comes amid unprecedented inflation and the rising cost of living triggered by his administration’s policies, fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification.

The duo policies have seen fuel prices soar from N145 to over N1,000 per litre, while a naira trades for about N1,700 as inflation hits 34.6, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

In a pushback against Mr Tinubu’s policies, Nigerians hit the streets nationwide, staging a 10-day #Endhunger and #Endbadgovernance protests.