The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, as public holidays to commemorate the Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations across the country.

In addition, the Federal Government announced Thursday, January 1, 2026, as a public holiday to mark the New Year celebration.

The announcement was conveyed in a statement issued on Monday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajayi.

According to the statement, the declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who spoke on behalf of the Federal Government.

Dr Tunji-Ojo extended warm Christmas and New Year greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the globe, as well as to all Nigerians, noting that the festive period provides an opportunity for reflection on the core values of love, peace, humility and sacrifice exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ.

He said these virtues remain vital to the promotion of unity, tolerance and harmonious coexistence among Nigerians.

The Minister called on citizens, irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds, to use the festive season to pray for peace, security and national progress, while also supporting the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts aimed at fostering development and unity.

“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,” the Minister stated.

Dr Tunji-Ojo further appealed to Nigerians to remain law-abiding, vigilant and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating fully with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and safe holiday period nationwide.

He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.