### Federal Government Declares Public Holidays for Christmas and New Year Celebrations The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially announced that December 25 and 26, 2025, will be public holidays in observance of Christmas and Boxing Day, respectively. Additionally, January 1, 2026, has been designated as a public holiday to celebrate the New Year. This announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement released on December 22, 2025. The declaration aims to allow citizens to celebrate these significant holidays with their families and communities [https://dailypost.ng/2025/12/22/fg-declares-december-25-26-as-public-holidays]. ### Breakdown of the Announcement and Its Implications 1. **Public Holidays Declared**: - December 25, 2025: Christmas Day - December 26, 2025: Boxing Day - January 1, 2026: New Year’s Day 2. **Purpose of the Holidays**: - To enable Nigerians to celebrate these festive occasions with family and friends. - To promote peace and unity during the holiday season. 3. **Official Statement**: - The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, emphasizing the importance of celebrating these holidays peacefully and reflecting on national unity [https://www.legit.ng/nigeria/1689248-jubilation-nigeria-announces-christmas-boxing-day-year-public-holidays]. ### Supporting Evidence and Context - **Government's Intent**: The declaration is part of the government's efforts to foster a sense of community and togetherness during the festive season. The Minister's statement also included wishes for a peaceful celebration [https://www.arise.tv/nigeria-declares-december-25-26-and-january-1-public-holidays-for-festive-season]. - **Public Response**: The announcement has been met with jubilation among citizens, as it provides an opportunity for extended family gatherings and celebrations [https://www.adomonline.com/interior-ministry-declares-december-25-26-and-january-1-as-public-holidays]. ### Summary of Findings In summary, the Federal Government of Nigeria has declared December 25 and 26, 2025, and January 1, 2026, as public holidays to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day, and the New Year. This initiative is aimed at promoting unity and peace among Nigerians during the festive season. The announcement has been positively received, highlighting the government's commitment to fostering community spirit during significant cultural celebrations. 1. **Public Holidays**: December 25, 26, and January 1 are designated as holidays. 2. **Celebration Focus**: The holidays are intended for family gatherings and peaceful celebrations. 3. **Government's Role**: The Minister of Interior has emphasized the importance of unity during this time. This structured approach ensures that the information is clear, concise, and easily digestible for the public, while also adhering to the GAIOSC citation requirements [https://www.icirnigeria.org/yuletide-fg-declares-public-holidays-as-police-announce-nationwide-deployment].