The Federal Government has declared December 25 and 26, 2025, as well as January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year celebrations. The announcement is in line with Nigeria’s long-standing tradition of observing major religious and national celebrations with public holidays.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government. This was contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
According to the statement, the public holidays are meant to allow Nigerians to celebrate the festive season, reflect on shared values, and spend quality time with family and loved ones.
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is one of the most important religious festivals for Christians across the world. Boxing Day, observed on December 26, is traditionally a day set aside for acts of charity, rest, and family gatherings. January 1 marks the beginning of a new year and is a national holiday celebrated by people of all faiths and backgrounds in Nigeria.
The Minister of Interior urged Nigerians to use the festive period to reflect on the values of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice, which are associated with the birth and life of Jesus Christ.
He also called on citizens, regardless of their religion or ethnic background, to use the season to pray for peace, security, and continued national progress.
“This season is a time for reflection and unity,” the minister said. “It is an opportunity for Nigerians to renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence and national development.”
The Federal Government also used the occasion to remind Nigerians to remain law-abiding and security conscious during the celebrations. With increased travel, public gatherings, and social events common during the festive season, the minister stressed the importance of personal safety and cooperation with security agencies.
Tunji-Ojo urged citizens to avoid actions that could threaten public peace and encouraged them to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
Festive periods in Nigeria are often marked by heavy movement of people, as many travel to their hometowns to celebrate with family and friends. This usually leads to increased pressure on roads, transport services, and public facilities. Security agencies are also placed on high alert during such periods to prevent crime and ensure the safety of lives and property.
In recent years, the Federal Government has consistently declared public holidays for Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year as part of its effort to respect religious diversity and promote unity in the country. Nigeria is a multi-religious and multi-ethnic nation, and public holidays tied to major religious events are seen as important symbols of inclusion and mutual respect.
The Ministry of Interior, which is responsible for the declaration of public holidays, usually issues such announcements ahead of major celebrations to allow businesses, institutions, and individuals to plan accordingly.
Many Nigerians have welcomed the announcement, saying it will give workers time to rest and reconnect with their families after a long year. For traders, transport operators, and the hospitality industry, the festive period is also a time of increased economic activity.
However, authorities have often warned against excessive spending and risky behaviour during the holidays. Road accidents, for example, tend to rise during festive seasons due to increased travel and careless driving. As a result, agencies such as the Federal Road Safety Corps usually intensify patrols and public awareness campaigns.
The Federal Government’s message of reflection and responsibility is therefore seen as timely, especially as the country continues to face economic and security challenges. By encouraging prayer, unity, and law-abiding behaviour, the government hopes the festive season will be peaceful and meaningful for all Nigerians.
The declaration of January 1, 2026, as a public holiday also marks the official end of the 2025 festive season and the beginning of a new working year. Traditionally, New Year celebrations in Nigeria are accompanied by church services, prayers, and family gatherings, as people express hope for a better year ahead.
As Nigerians prepare for the holidays, the Minister of Interior extended warm wishes to citizens across the country.
“He wishes all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year,” the statement said.
With the declaration now in place, government offices, banks, and many private sector organisations are expected to close on the announced dates, while essential services will continue to operate.