FG declares December 25, 26 and January 1 Public Holidays

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

The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the federal government.

In a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the minister extended warm Christmas and New Year greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, as well as to all Nigerians as they mark the end of the year and the beginning of a new one.

Tunji-Ojo urged Christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility and sacrifice, as exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that these values are essential for promoting unity, tolerance and national harmony.

The minister further called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation, to use the festive season to pray for the peace, security and continued progress of the country, while supporting the federal government’s efforts toward national development and cohesion.

“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,” he said.

Tunji-Ojo also advised citizens to remain law-abiding, security conscious and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and safe festive period nationwide.

He wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.