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 New Year celebrations.

 

 

 

This 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 for reflection on the values of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice associated with the birth of Jesus Christ.

 

 

He also urged Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnicity, to use the festive season to pray for peace, security, and national progress, while supporting government efforts at national development and cohesion.

 

 

 

He further advised Nigerians to remain law-abiding and security-conscious during the celebrations, while wishing them a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

 

 

 

“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,” he said.

 

 

 

Tunji-Ojo also enjoined citizens to remain law-abiding, security-conscious and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies to ensure a peaceful festive period.

 

 

 

He wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year