The Federal Government has declared Monday December 27 and Tuesday December 28, 2021 as public holidays to mark Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations.
The government also declared Monday January 3, 2022 public holiday to celebrate New Year’s Day
Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, felicitates with Christians and all Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations.
This was contained in a statement on Wednesday signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Shuaib Belgore. It was titled, ‘FG declares Monday, 27th, Tuesday 28th, 2021 and Monday, January 3rd, 2022 public holidays’.
The minister was quoted as saying, “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.