The federal government has announced that Monday 27th, Tuesday 28th December 2022 as well as Monday, 3rd January 2022; will be public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations respectively.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola in a statement titled, “FG declares Monday, 27th, Tuesday 28th, 2021 and Monday, January 3rd, 2022 public holidays”, which was released on Wednesday and signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Shuaib Belgore.
The minister was quoted as saying, “We must emulate the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings on humility, service, compassion, patience, peace and righteousness, that His birth signifies.
“This will be the best way to portray Christ and celebrate His birth.”
He stressed that peace and security are two critical conditions for economic development and prosperity and urged Christians and Nigerians to make the best use of this festive period, to pray for the total eradication of insecurity bedevilling our dear nation.
Aregbesola also enjoined all Nigerians to adhere strictly to and observe all the stipulated non-pharmaceutical COVID-19 protocols and guidelines such as wearing of facemasks, frequent washing of hands with soap and water, using of hand sanitiser and avoidance of large groups.
“Moderately celebrate the festival without large groupings and observe all the protocols stipulated by medical authorities. Take it as a point of personal responsibility to prevent the spread of the virus,” the minister said.