The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Monday 27th, Tuesday 28th December 2021 and Monday, 3rd January 2022 as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day celebrations respectively.
This was contained in a statement by the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, signed by Dr Shuaib M.L. Belgore, Permanent Secretary of the ministry.
Aregbesola felicitated with Christians and all Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations, while enjoining them to practice the doctrines of Christ, which include but not limited to these – faith, hope and love.
The statement said, “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.”
Aregbesola emphasized that peace and security are two critical conditions for economic development and prosperity as he strongly charged Nigerians not to be lulled into a false sense of security on COVID-19 pandemic.
He therefore assured 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.