The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Monday December 27, Tuesday December 28, 2021; and Monday, January 3, 2022 as public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day celebrations respectively.
Rauf Aregbesola, Minister of Interior, made this known in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Shuaib Belgore on Wednesday.
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The Minister felicitates with Christians and all Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations.
“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.”
He stressed that peace and security are two critical conditions for economic development and prosperity and urged Christians and Nigerians to make the best use of this festive period to pray for the total eradication of insecurity bedevilling our dear nation.
Aregbesola also enjoined all Nigerians to adhere strictly to and observe all the stipulated non-pharmaceutical COVID-19 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.
“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,” the minister said.
