FG Declares Holidays for Christmas, Boxing Day, New Year

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, Friday, December 26, 2025, and Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations.

The declaration was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

According to the statement, the minister urged Nigerians to use the festive season as a period of deep reflection on the core values of love, peace, humility and sacrifice, which are associated with the birth of Jesus Christ.

Tunji-Ojo called on citizens, irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds, to pray for sustained peace, improved security and national progress, while continuing to support the Federal Government’s efforts towards unity and development.

He stressed that the Christmas and New Year celebrations offer Nigerians an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of unity, demonstrate compassion to one another and renew their collective commitment to nation-building.

“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 said.

Tunji-Ojo also advised Nigerians to remain law-abiding and security-conscious throughout the festive period, urging moderation in celebrations and cooperation with security agencies to ensure a peaceful atmosphere nationwide.

He further emphasized the importance of responsible conduct during the holidays, noting that collective vigilance and adherence to the law would contribute to a safe and harmonious celebration across the country.

The minister concluded by wishing all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, while expressing optimism for a more peaceful and united nation in the coming year.