The Federal Government has officially declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, one of the most important festivals in the Islamic calendar. The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement issued by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani.
Eid-el-Fitr, which signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is a time of thanksgiving, festivity, and reflection for Muslims worldwide. It is celebrated with prayers, feasts, and acts of charity after a month of fasting from dawn to dusk. The public holidays provide Nigerians an opportunity to join in the celebration, spend time with family and friends, and participate in various activities that reflect the spirit of Eid.
Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in his message, congratulated Muslims across the country for successfully completing the Ramadan fast, emphasizing the significance of the fast as a period of spiritual growth, self-discipline, and devotion. He urged Muslims to carry the virtues of Ramadan into the post-fasting period by embracing values such as compassion, generosity, and peace.
“Ramadan has been a time for reflection, self-discipline, and deep connection with Allah. As we mark the end of this blessed month, I encourage all Muslim faithful to continue reflecting on the lessons of Ramadan,” Tunji-Ojo said in the statement.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity within society, stressing that these virtues should not only be celebrated during Eid but should be embedded in daily life to foster a more harmonious and united Nigeria.
Tunji-Ojo called on citizens to celebrate the Eid festivities responsibly, ensuring safety during the period of celebration. He also reminded everyone to remember the less privileged through acts of kindness and charity, which are central to the true spirit of Ramadan and Eid.
The Ramadan fasting period is not only about abstaining from food and drink but also about cultivating self-discipline and developing a deeper sense of empathy for those in need. During the month, Muslims are encouraged to give generously to charity, help the less fortunate, and strengthen their connection with their faith.
As part of the Eid celebration, many Muslims across the country will make time for the traditional act of Zakat, a form of almsgiving aimed at supporting those in need. This aligns with Tunji-Ojo’s call for citizens to embrace the spirit of charity during the Eid festivities, ensuring that no one is left behind during the celebrations.
Eid is a time for social gatherings, family reunions, and community prayers. However, Tunji-Ojo stressed the need for caution in light of the ongoing public health guidelines, advising citizens to ensure safety while celebrating.
“Let us enjoy the festivities while ensuring that we adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines to protect ourselves and those around us,” he added.
Tunji-Ojo extended heartfelt Eid Mubarak wishes to all Muslim faithful, praying that the blessings of the season bring happiness, success, and fulfillment to everyone. He emphasized the hope that the celebration would bring peace and prosperity to Nigeria, a nation that continues to navigate challenges in various sectors.
“The Federal Government prays that the blessings of this holy season bring about peace, prosperity, and a sense of togetherness for our country. May it inspire more acts of goodwill and understanding among all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
This public holiday declaration is in line with the federal government’s annual tradition of recognizing important religious celebrations, ensuring that citizens have the opportunity to observe the festival in a meaningful way.
Across Nigeria, Muslims will be celebrating Eid-el-Fitr in various ways, depending on their local customs. In many parts of the country, Muslims will begin the day with the special Eid prayer, which is often held in open spaces or large mosques. It is a communal activity that fosters a sense of unity and shared religious experience.
Eid also marks the end of Ramadan’s fasting period, allowing Muslims to gather with family and friends for large feasts. This is an occasion for socializing, exchanging gifts, and renewing friendships. Traditional foods such as Jollof rice, fried rice, and various local delicacies are served, often accompanied by sweets and special drinks. In addition to the prayers and feasting, there is a strong emphasis on community and charity.
The celebration is expected to have significant economic and social impacts, as people travel to different parts of the country to reunite with loved ones. For many, the Eid holiday represents a chance to reconnect with family and friends, while also expressing gratitude for the strength shown during the month of fasting.
The declaration of the public holidays for Eid-el-Fitr further underscores the Nigerian government’s commitment to fostering religious tolerance and unity among the country’s diverse population. With a population of over 200 million people, Nigeria is home to a significant number of both Muslims and Christians, making it essential to promote understanding and respect for all religious practices.
By officially recognizing important religious holidays like Eid, the government contributes to strengthening national cohesion and recognizing the importance of faith in the lives of its citizens. In a country marked by religious diversity, such recognition plays a vital role in building bridges between communities and promoting peaceful coexistence.
