The Federal Government has declared December 25, December 26 and January 1, 2026 as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations across the country.
The declaration was announced on Monday by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, in Abuja.
According to the statement, the holidays are in recognition of the significance of the festive season, particularly Christmas, which is observed annually on December 25 to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ by Christians, while also serving as a cultural celebration for many Nigerians.
Dr Tunji-Ojo extended warm seasonal greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, as well as to Nigerians of all faiths, urging them to reflect on the values of love, peace, humility and sacrifice associated with the Christmas season.
He noted that these virtues remain essential for promoting national unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, especially during a period of economic and social challenges.
The minister also encouraged citizens to use the festive season as a time to pray for peace, security and the continued progress of the nation, while supporting ongoing government efforts aimed at 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,” Tunji-Ojo said.
He further advised Nigerians to remain law-abiding, security-conscious and moderate in their celebrations, calling for cooperation with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and incident-free festive period nationwide.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has also assured Nigerians of a peaceful and joyous Yuletide, stressing that the holiday season would be marked by safety, harmony and national stability.
The president gave the assurance while receiving members of the Eyo group alongside the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, where he urged Nigerians to celebrate responsibly and avoid actions that could endanger lives or public order.
