Nigeria declares holidays for Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year festivities
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Thursday, December 25, 2025; Friday, December 26, 2025; and Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day, and the New Year, respectively.
The announcement came in a statement signed Monday by Dr Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, on behalf of Minister Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The minister extended warm felicitations to Christians in Nigeria and worldwide, as well as all Nigerians marking the year’s end and a fresh start.
Tunji-Ojo urged reflection on Christ’s virtues, stating, “Christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice as exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that these values are critical to promoting unity, tolerance, and harmony in the nation.”
He called on all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity, to pray for national peace and support government development efforts.
“The Christmas season and the New Year present 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 underlined.
Citizens were also advised to stay law-abiding, security-conscious, and moderate during celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies.
Tunji-Ojo concluded with wishes for a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.
