FG Declares December 25, 26 And January 1 Public Holidays For Festive Celebrations

The Federal Government has officially announced Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, alongside Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to commemorate Christmas, Boxing Day, and the New Year celebrations.

According to Ireporter Online, the declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government. The announcement was conveyed through a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.

In the statement, the minister conveyed heartfelt Christmas and New Year greetings to Christians in Nigeria and around the world, while also extending goodwill messages to all Nigerians marking the close of the year and the start of a new one.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo encouraged Christians to reflect on the core values of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice symbolised by the birth of Jesus Christ, stressing that such virtues are essential for fostering national unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

He further appealed to Nigerians of all religious and ethnic backgrounds to take advantage of the festive period to pray for peace, security, and the sustained development of the country. The minister urged citizens to support the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts aimed at strengthening national cohesion and development.

Emphasising the significance of the season, the minister noted that the Christmas and New Year festivities offer an opportunity for Nigerians to deepen bonds of unity, demonstrate compassion, and renew their commitment to nation-building.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo also advised citizens to remain law-abiding and security-conscious, calling for moderation in celebrations and cooperation with security agencies to ensure a safe and peaceful holiday period.

He concluded by wishing Nigerians a joyful Christmas celebration and a prosperous New Year.