FG Declares December 25, 26 and January 1 Public Holiday

The Federal Government has announced that December 25 and 26, 2025, and January 1, 2026 will be observed as public holidays across Nigeria.

The announcement was made through the Ministry of Interior on behalf of the Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Magdalene Ajani, explained that the holidays are for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

The minister encouraged Nigerians, especially Christians, to pause and think about the lessons linked with the birth of Jesus Christ. He mentioned values such as love, peace, humility, and sacrifice, saying these ideas still matter for how people live together as a nation.

He also appealed to citizens from all backgrounds, no matter their religion or ethnic group, to use the festive season to pray for peace, safety, and steady progress in the country. According to him, the period should be a time for calm reflection and shared goodwill.

Nigerians were reminded to stay law-abiding and alert during the celebrations. The minister stressed the need for moderation and cooperation with security agencies so the season remains safe for everyone. He ended the message by wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Full press statement

FG DECLARES DECEMBER 25, 26, 2025 AND JANUARY 1, 2026 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, 25 December 2025; Friday, 26 December 2025; and Thursday, 1 January 2026 as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year celebrations.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government. He sent warm Christmas and New Year greetings to Christians in Nigeria and abroad, and also to Nigerians marking the close of one year and the start of another.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo asked Christians to reflect on the values shown by the birth of Jesus Christ, including love, peace, humility, and sacrifice. He noted that these values help encourage unity, tolerance, and harmony across the country.

The minister further urged Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnic background, to use the season to pray for peace, security, and the continued growth of the nation, while supporting efforts aimed at national development and togetherness.

He said the Christmas period and the New Year offer a chance for citizens to strengthen unity, show care for one another, and renew their shared responsibility to build the nation, even if times feel tough.

Citizens were also advised to remain law-abiding, security-conscious, and calm in their celebrations, while working with security agencies to keep the holidays peaceful.

The minister wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Signed
Dr. Magdalene Ajani
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Interior
December 22, 2025