December 22, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Wednesday, December 25; Thursday, December 26; and Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations.
The declaration was made on Monday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement issued to the public.
Tunji-Ojo extended warm seasonal greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, as well as to other Nigerians. He urged citizens to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility and sacrifice exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ.
The minister described these values as essential to national unity, tolerance and harmony, and called on Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for peace, security and sustained national progress, while supporting government efforts at development and social cohesion.
He further appealed to citizens to remain law-abiding, security-conscious and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies to ensure a peaceful festive season.
“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.
