### Federal Government Declares Public Holidays for Christmas and New Year Celebrations The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, as public holidays to celebrate Christmas and Boxing Day, respectively. Additionally, Thursday, January 1, 2026, has been designated as a public holiday for the New Year celebration. This announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who extended warm wishes to all citizens during this festive season. The declaration affects government offices, including those at the University, which will be closed on these days, although essential services will continue to operate as required [https://unilag.edu.ng/federal-government-declares-december-25-26-january-1-public-holidays][https://bizwatchnigeria.ng/fg-declares-december-25-26-and-january-1-public-holidays-for-christmas-and-new-year]. ### Breakdown of the Public Holiday Announcement 1. **Holiday Dates**: - December 25, 2025: Christmas Day - December 26, 2025: Boxing Day - January 1, 2026: New Year’s Day 2. **Government Offices**: - All government offices will be closed on these dates. - Essential services will remain operational as directed by department heads. 3. **Public Sentiment**: - The announcement has been met with jubilation among citizens, who are encouraged to celebrate peacefully and safely during the festive period [https://www.legit.ng/nigeria/1689248-jubilation-nigeria-announces-christmas-boxing-day-year-public-holidays][https://www.thisdaylive.com/2025/12/23/fg-declares-dec-25-26-2025-and-jan-1-2026-public-holidays]. ### Supporting Evidence and Context - **Official Statements**: The declaration was made through an official statement from the Ministry of Interior, emphasizing the importance of the holidays for cultural and religious observance [https://www.adomonline.com/interior-ministry-declares-december-25-26-and-january-1-as-public-holidays]. - **Public Response**: Citizens have expressed excitement over the holidays, viewing them as an opportunity for family gatherings and community celebrations [https://www.arise.tv/nigeria-declares-december-25-26-and-january-1-public-holidays-for-festive-season]. - **Safety Advisory**: Authorities have urged the public to celebrate responsibly, highlighting the need for peace and security during the festive season [https://thenicheng.com/fg-declares-public-holidays-for-christmas-new-year]. ### Summary of Findings In summary, the Federal Government of Nigeria has declared three public holidays to mark the Christmas and New Year celebrations, specifically on December 25, 26, and January 1. This decision aims to allow citizens to observe these significant cultural and religious events while ensuring that essential services continue to function. The announcement has been positively received, with calls for peaceful celebrations during this festive period. 1. **Public Holidays Declared**: December 25, 26, and January 1. 2. **Government Offices Closed**: Except for essential services. 3. **Public Encouragement**: Celebrate safely and peacefully. This structured approach to the holiday announcement reflects the government's commitment to fostering a celebratory atmosphere while maintaining essential services during the festive season [https://www.icirnigeria.org/yuletide-fg-declares-public-holidays-as-police-announce-nationwide-deployment][https://www.informationng.com/2025/12/fg-declares-public-holidays-for-christmas-new-year-3.html].