The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, 2025; Friday, December 26, 2025; and Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.
According to the statement, which was signed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the minister extended goodwill messages to Christians in Nigeria and around the world, as well as to all Nigerians, as they mark the festive season and usher in the new year.
Tunji-Ojo urged Christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility and sacrifice, as demonstrated by the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that such values remain essential for national unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
He also called on Nigerians, regardless of religious or ethnic background, to use the festive period to pray for the peace, security and continued development of the country, while supporting the Federal Government’s efforts at strengthening national cohesion.
The minister said the Christmas and New Year celebrations provide an opportunity for citizens to deepen unity, show compassion to one another and renew their commitment to nation-building.
Tunji-Ojo further advised Nigerians to remain law-abiding, security conscious and restrained in their celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies to ensure a safe and peaceful festive season.
He wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.