Federal Government has declared December 25 and 26, 2025, as well as January 1, 2026, as public holidays to allow Nigerians celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day and the New Year.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, in Abuja.
While extending warm seasonal greetings to Christians in Nigeria and around the world, the minister also sent goodwill messages to all Nigerians, urging them to embrace the true spirit of the season.
Dr Tunji-Ojo called on Christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility and sacrifice exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that such values remain critical to national unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
He further encouraged Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for the peace, security and sustained progress of the country, while continuing to support government efforts aimed at national development and cohesion.
“The Christmas season and the New Year presents 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 also advised citizens to remain law-abiding, security-conscious and moderate in their celebrations, stressing the need for cooperation with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and safe festive period across the country.
He concluded by wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
