The Federal Government has officially declared Wednesday, December 25, and Thursday, December 26, 2024, as public holidays in observance of Christmas and Boxing Day. Additionally, Wednesday, January 1, 2025, has been marked as a public holiday for the celebration of New Year’s Day.
The announcement was made on Monday morning by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government. This festive period marks a time for national reflection, celebration, and a focus on the values of love, peace, and unity.
In a statement issued by the Ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, Dr Tunji-Ojo extended warm holiday greetings to all Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora. The Minister encouraged citizens to embrace the spirit of the season and reflect on its true significance.
“The Christmas season is a good moment for both spiritual reflection and national renewal,” Tunji-Ojo said. “As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, let us demonstrate kindness and extend goodwill to one another, irrespective of our differences.”
This holiday season comes with a call for unity and peaceful coexistence among families, communities, and the nation as a whole. The Minister highlighted that this time of year provides an opportunity to strengthen relationships and promote harmony.
Dr Tunji-Ojo also urged Nigerian Christians to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who exemplified humility, service, compassion, and patience in his life. His teachings, according to the Minister, should guide the behaviour and actions of all citizens during this period of celebration.
“In emulating Christ’s example, let us practice love and peace, and work together for the good of the nation,” he said.
Peace and security were major themes in the Minister’s message. He stressed that these two elements are critical for Nigeria’s economic development and prosperity, particularly as the nation looks forward to a new year with the government’s Renewed Hope agenda under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
“Peace and security are the bedrock upon which we build a prosperous nation,” Tunji-Ojo said. “The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Tinubu, is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.”
The Minister also called on Nigerians to be vigilant during the festive period, urging them to report any suspicious activities or individuals to security agencies. This, he said, is a shared responsibility in safeguarding the nation.
The declaration of public holidays is not just about celebration but also about discipline and vigilance. “We must remain focused on ensuring our communities are safe, and that we protect our property and loved ones,” Tunji-Ojo added.
Nigerians have been reminded that the holiday season offers an opportunity for personal renewal, as well as collective national progress. The Minister highlighted that while the nation enjoys the celebrations, it is equally important to reflect on how far the country has come and the journey ahead.
Dr Tunji-Ojo also expressed confidence in the success of the Renewed Hope agenda, which he believes will usher in a better and more prosperous Nigeria in the New Year.
“Together, we can build a nation that reflects the values of unity, peace, and prosperity,” he said. “The government will continue to work towards achieving these goals, and we are hopeful that 2025 will be a year of significant progress for our country.”
He concluded his message by wishing all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. The holiday period, he said, provides the perfect backdrop for reinforcing national unity and fostering a spirit of cooperation among all citizens.
Background Context
The declaration of public holidays in Nigeria has always been a way to mark significant cultural and religious celebrations. Christmas, celebrated by Christians worldwide, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. In Nigeria, a country with a large Christian population, the holiday is widely observed with church services, feasts, and family gatherings.
Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26, is often a day for relaxation and continued celebrations, marked by family visits and social gatherings. New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1, is a time for reflection on the past year and setting resolutions for the year ahead. These holidays, declared by the government, provide an opportunity for Nigerians to rest, celebrate, and engage in acts of charity and goodwill.
