By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Monday, December 27, Tuesday, December 28 and Monday, January 3, 2022, have been declared as public holidays by the federal government.
A statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr Shuaib Belgore, disclosed that the days were approved as work-free days for Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day celebrations.
However, Nigerians, especially Christians, were enjoined to practice the doctrines of Christ, which include but are not limited to these – faith, hope and love.
“We must emulate the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings on humility, service, compassion, patience, peace and righteousness, that His birth signifies.
“This will be the best way to portray Christ and celebrate his birth,” the Minister of Interior, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, was quoted as saying in the statement.
The Minister stressed that peace and security are two critical conditions for economic development and prosperity, urging Christians and Nigerians to make the best use of this festive period to pray for the total eradication of insecurity bedevilling our dear nation.
Mr Aregbesola strongly charged Nigerians not to be lulled into a false sense of security on the COVID-19 pandemic but to note that it is increasingly assuming a very dangerous and harmful dimension with the emergence of a virulent variant, Omicron.
“This calls for deliberate responsibility and discipline on the part of all,” the Minister stated, appealing to the citizens to adhere strictly to and observe all the stipulated non-pharmaceutical protocols and guidelines such as wearing of facemasks, frequent washing of hands with soap and water, using of hand sanitiser and avoidance of large groups.
Also, he urged quick report to medical authorities of any respiratory illness observed in self and others before, during and after the Yuletide.
Speaking further, the Minister said this Yuletide calls for Spartan discipline in order to prevent the spread of the virus in our community and the nation as a whole.
“Moderately celebrate the festival without large groupings and observe all the protocols stipulated by medical authorities. Take it as a point of personal responsibility to prevent the spread of the virus,” Mr Aregbesola said.
The Minister also assured that the government has put in place effective measures for the security of lives and property and expects Nigerians to support the efforts of security agencies by providing useful information that will assist them in the performance of their duties.
He admonished all citizens to remain focused and expresses confidence that the year 2022 would be a better year for all and wished all Christians in particular a happy Christmas and all Nigerians a peaceful and prosperous New Year celebration.
Adedapo Adesanya