The Federal Government has officially designated December 25, December 26 and January 1, 2026, as public holidays across the country to commemorate Christmas Day, Boxing Day and the New Year celebrations.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Magdalene Ajani. She explained that the declaration is in line with the government’s tradition of recognising major national and religious festivities.
In his message to Nigerians, Tunji-Ojo encouraged citizens to take time during the festive season to reflect deeply on the core principles associated with the birth of Jesus Christ, including love, peace, humility and sacrifice. He stressed that these values remain essential to fostering unity and harmony within the nation.
The minister further appealed to Nigerians, regardless of their religious beliefs or ethnic backgrounds, to use the period to offer prayers for enduring peace, improved security and sustained national development. He noted that the festive season presents an opportunity for collective reflection and renewed commitment to the country’s progress.
Tunji-Ojo also advised citizens to remain law-abiding and security-conscious throughout the celebrations, urging everyone to celebrate responsibly. He concluded by extending warm wishes to Nigerians for a joyful Christmas celebration and a prosperous New Year.
See the full statement below:
PRESS STATEMENT
FG DECLARES DECEMBER 25, 26, 2025 AND JANUARY 1, 2026 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS TO MARK CHRISTMAS, BOXING DAY AND NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, 25th December 2025; Friday, 26th December 2025; and Thursday, 1st January 2026 as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations respectively.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, extended warm Christmas and New Year felicitations to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, as well as to all Nigerians as they celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of a new one.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged Christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice as exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that these values are critical to promoting unity, tolerance, and harmony in the nation.
The Minister further called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation, to use the festive season to pray for the peace, security, and continued progress of the country, while supporting the Federal Government’s efforts towards national development and cohesion.
“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. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo also enjoined citizens to remain law-abiding, security conscious, and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and safe festive period.
The Minister wishes all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
SIGNED
Dr. Magdalene Ajani
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Interior
December 22, 2025.
What you should know
The declaration of public holidays for Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year is a routine practice by the Federal Government to allow citizens observe key religious and cultural celebrations.
The Interior Ministry often uses such announcements to promote national values like unity, peace and lawful conduct.
Beyond marking festivities, these holidays also offer Nigerians time to rest, reconnect with family and reflect on shared responsibilities toward national cohesion, security and development, especially during periods of economic and social pressure.
