The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, as well as Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year celebrations.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the public holidays on behalf of the Federal Government.
In a statement by the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the minister extended warm Christmas and New Year felicitations to Christians in Nigeria and across the world.
He extended the same gestures “to all Nigerians as they celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of a new one”.
Tunji-Ojo urged Christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice as exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that these values are critical to promoting unity, tolerance, and harmony in the nation.
The minister also urged fellow Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliations, to use the festive season to pray for the peace, security, and continued progress of the country.
He urged all citizens to support the Federal Government’s efforts towards national development and cohesion.
“The Christmas season and the New Year present an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of unity, show compassion to one another, and renew our collective commitment to nation-building,” the statement said.
Tunji-Ojo also enjoined the citizens to remain law-abiding and security-conscious.
The minister said there is a need for all Nigerians to show moderation in their celebrations and cooperation with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and safe festive period.
He wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
