In a festive-season announcement, the Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, as public holidays for Christmas Day and Boxing Day, and Thursday, January 1, 2026, for the New Year celebration.
The announcement was contained 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, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Interior Ministry Emphasises National Reflection
According to the statement, the declaration aligns with the government’s long-standing tradition of observing major religious and national festivities. The Minister of Interior urged Nigerians to reflect on the values of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice associated with the birth of Jesus Christ, describing the season as a time for moral renewal and collective responsibility.
Call for Unity Beyond Faith and Ethnicity
Tunji-Ojo called on Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnic background, to use the festive period to pray for peace, improved security, and national progress. He noted that the Christmas and New Year celebrations provide an opportunity to strengthen national unity and deepen social cohesion in a diverse society.
“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 statement said.
Security, Lawfulness Take Centre Stage
Beyond celebration, the Federal Government also stressed the need for caution and responsibility. Nigerians were advised to remain law-abiding and security-conscious during the holidays, as increased travel and social activities often come with heightened security concerns.
Federal government reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property throughout the festive period.
Government Extends Seasonal Felicitations
The Minister of Interior extended warm Christmas and New Year greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, as well as to all Nigerians marking the end of the year and the beginning of a new one.
“The Federal Government has declared Thursday, 25th December 2025; Friday, 26th December 2025; and Thursday, 1st January 2026 as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year celebrations respectively,” the statement concluded.