The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, December 25; Thursday, December 26; and Thursday, January 1, as public holidays to commemorate the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations across the country.
The announcement was made on Monday in Abuja by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
In the statement, the minister extended warm seasonal greetings to Christians in Nigeria and around the world, as well as to Nigerians of all faiths, describing the festive period as a time for reflection, gratitude and renewed hope for a better nation.
Tunji-Ojo urged Christians to reflect deeply on the virtues of love, peace, humility and sacrifice exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that these values remain critical to fostering national unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
He stressed that the Christmas season should serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion and selflessness, especially at a time when the country continues to confront social and economic challenges that require collective understanding and cooperation.
The minister also called on all Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for lasting peace, improved security and the continued progress of the country. He encouraged citizens to support ongoing government efforts aimed at strengthening national cohesion, promoting development and ensuring stability.
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He noted that the Christmas celebrations and the New Year offer an opportunity for Nigerians to renew their commitment to nation-building, strengthen family and community ties, and show kindness to the less privileged in society.
Tunji-Ojo further advised citizens to conduct themselves responsibly during the holidays by remaining law-abiding, security-conscious and moderate in their celebrations.
He emphasized the need for cooperation with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and safe festive season nationwide.
The minister expressed confidence that with collective responsibility and adherence to shared values, the festive period would be celebrated without incidents and would contribute to harmony across the country.
He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, expressing hope that the celebrations would usher in renewed optimism, unity and progress for the nation.
NAN
