FG Declares Dec 25, 28, January 1 Public Holidays

BY VICTOR OSOWOCHI, ABUJA – The Federal Government has declared Friday, December 25 and Monday, December 28, 2020 as public holidays to mark this year’s Christmas and Boxing Day festivities.

Also declared a public holiday is Friday, January 1, 2021 in celebration of the New Year day.

Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who made the official announcement on behalf of the Federal Government, felicitated with Christians and all Nigerians both at home and abroad on this year’s Yuletide season.

He challenged Christians to adopt the creed of Christ on faith, hope and love, saying; “We must emulate the life of humility, service, compassion, patience, peace and righteousness that the birth and Ministry of Jesus Christ signified, that will be the best way to know Christ and celebrate his birth.”

Speaking through a statement signed for him by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr Shuaib Belgore, the Minister said peace and security are critical factors needed to enable Government accomplish its mission of revitalizing the economy; and improving Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

Additionally, he said the country also needs a serene and conducive environment to generate employment opportunities for over 100 million Nigerian youths in the next 10 years.

Ogbeni Aregbesola further advised Nigerians, especially Christians to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 protocols and guidelines, as stipulated by relevant health authorities, before, during and after the yuletide, given that the second wave of the virus outbreak is already threatening in the country.

He also used the opportunity to express Federal Government’s commitment to the fight against armed banditry, kidnappings and other crimes and criminality in the country.

The Minister urged Nigerians to support efforts by the security agencies through robust provision of necessary information that will enhance intelligence gathering in the country.

Admonishing all Nigerians to remain “focused, determined, patient and patriotic”, the former governor of Osun State expressed confidence that year 2021 would be a better year for all Nigerians and therefore charged Christians to use the period to pray for the peace, progress and prosperity of Nigeria.

The statement therefore wished all Nigerians and Christians in particular, a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Celebrations.