The Federal Government has declared 26th, 27th December and 2nd January as public holidays to mark the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The public holidays are to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year in that order.
Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola who confirmed this, urged Christians to emulate Jesus and reflect on his teachings as they celebrate.
According to Aregbesola, they must imbibe the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings on humility, service, compassion, patience, peace, and righteousness, that His birth signifies, his will be the best way to portray Christ and celebrate his birth.
He also called on them not to allow criminal-minded people to push them into creating anarchy in the country.
Aregbesola said this calls for deliberate responsibility and discipline on the part of all, calling on them to moderately celebrate the festival, avoid the spread of fake news, and be responsible.
He also assures that 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.
Aregbesola admonishes all citizens to remain focused and expresses confidence that the year 2023 would be a better year for us all.
He wishes all Christians in particular a happy Christmas and all Nigerians a peaceful and prosperous New Year celebration.
The Interior Minister made this known in a statement signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Belgore Shuaib.