The Nigerian Government has declared Monday, December 27 and Tuesday, December 28 as public holidays and Monday as public holidays to mark Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations.
Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, also announced that Monday, January 3, 2022, would be observed as public holidays to mark New Year celebration.
The Minister felicitated with Christians and all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations.
He enjoined Christians to practice the doctrines of Jesus Christ, which include, but are not limited to 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, which His birth signifies. This will be the best way to portray Christ and celebrate his birth,” the statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Shuaib Belgore, in Abuja on Thursday quoted the minister as saying.
The Nigerian Minister noted that peace and security are two critical conditions for economic development and prosperity, and urged Christians and Nigerians to make the best use of the festive period to pray for the eradication of insecurity bedeviling the country.
He advised Nigerians to observe the Covid-19 protocol since “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,” he said.
He also assured Nigerians 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.
The Minister admonished all citizens to remain focused and expressed confidence that the year 2022 would be a better year for all.
GIK/APA