The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, Friday, December 26, 2025, and Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and the New Year celebrations.
The declaration was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Tunji-Ojo called on Nigerians to reflect on the enduring values of love, peace, humility and sacrifice associated with the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that the festive season offers a unique opportunity for national reflection and renewal.
He urged citizens, irrespective of faith, ethnicity or background, to use the period to pray for peace, security and national progress, while supporting ongoing government efforts aimed at fostering unity, development and social cohesion across the country.
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“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 minister said.
The interior minister further advised Nigerians to remain law-abiding, security-conscious and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating fully with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and incident-free festive period.
He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, expressing hope that the celebrations would further strengthen the nation’s unity and shared sense of purpose.