The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Wednesday, Thursday, and January 1, 2025, as public holidays to allow citizens to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day, and the New Year. This announcement was revealed through a statement signed by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, on Monday from Abuja.
Accompanying the holiday announcement, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo extended warm greetings to all Nigerians, encouraging them to use this festive period to reflect on the values of love, peace, and unity inherent to the season. "The Christmas season is a good moment for both espiritual reflection and national renewal," Tunji-Ojo remarked.
He expressed the sentiment of goodwill, stating, "as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, let us demonstrate kindness and extend goodwill to one another, irrespective of our differences." The Minister underscored the importance of this season as a time for fostering harmony and strengthening bonds across families and communities.
Reassuring citizens, Tunji-Ojo outlined the federal government's commitment to maintaining peace, security, and prosperity across the nation, echoing the renewed hope agenda set forth by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as the country heads toward 2025.
Meanwhile, in Jordan, Prime Minister Jafar Hassan extended his congratulations to Christians for the Christmas holiday and the New Year. During his meeting with church leaders at the Greek Catholic Archdiocese, attended by several ministers, Hassan highlighted the significance of the occasion, stating it is "a celebration of love and brotherhood, values which have long defined the Jordanian society."
This message reinforces the communal spirit of the holidays, particularly as the Prime Minister continues to strengthen ties with various religious and community leaders.
Other Jordanian officials, including Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Bisher Al Khasawneh, also shared their good wishes to Christians, reflecting the nation's respect for the diverse religious traditions within its borders.
Both leaders' announcements convey the essence of the festive season as not only a time for celebration, but also as an opportunity to promote unity and goodwill among all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.
With the public holidays now recognized, Nigerians are expected to embrace the holiday with reflections on love and community. Jordanian Christians, similarly, will engage with the holiday customs, underscoring the importance of fellowship and togetherness.
This period signifies more than just days off; it's about creating connections and fostering mutual respect, ensuring everyone can partake in the celebrations with joy and hope for the future.
