By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Monday, December 25 and Tuesday, December 26, 2023, have been declared by the federal government as holidays in Nigeria to observe the Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Director Overseeing Office of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Mr Peter Egbodo, the government also declared Monday, January 1, 2024, as a public holiday for the New Year celebration.
“The federal government has declared Monday. December 25 and Tuesday, December 26, 2023, and Monday, January 1, 2024, as public holidays to mark Christmas and New Year’s Day celebrations, respectively,” a part of the statement yesterday said.
According to the disclosure, the Minister of Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, assured the citizens that the federal government has put measures in place for the security of lives, especially during the celebrations.
However, he admonished Nigerians to be “security conscious, and report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agencies,” emphasising that the Yuletide season calls for discipline to protect the lives and properties nationwide.
The Minister also “enjoined Christians to emulate the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings of humility, service, compassion, and patience. peace and righteousness that His birth signifies,” stressing that “peace and security are critical prerequisites for economic development and prosperity.”
Mr Tunji-Ojo, the statement added, “admonished all citizens to remain focused that, the year 2024 will be a better year with the Renewed Hope agenda of the President. The Minister wishes all Nigerians, especially Christians a happy Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year celebration.”
Adedapo Adesanya