The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared public holidays for the upcoming festive season to allow citizens to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and the New Year, the government announced in a statement on Monday. Thursday 25 December 2025, Friday 26 December 2025, and Thursday 1 January 2026 will be observed as national public holidays across the country. The declaration was made by Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, on behalf of the Federal Government.
In the statement, Dr Tunji-Ojo extended warm greetings to Christians in Nigeria and around the world, and to all Nigerians celebrating the end of one year and the start of another. He urged Christians to reflect on the core Christian values of love, peace, humility and sacrifice, which are symbolised by the birth of Jesus Christ. These values, he said, are essential for promoting unity, tolerance and harmony in Nigeria’s diverse society.
The minister also encouraged everyone, irrespective of religious belief or ethnic background, to use the festive season as an opportunity to pray for peace, improved security, and continued national progress. He called on Nigerians to remain law-abiding and security-conscious during the celebrations, and to support government efforts aimed at fostering national development and unity.
Dr Tunji-Ojo described this period as a time for strengthening the bonds of unity and showing compassion to one another. He wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, emphasising that the holidays provide a chance for families and communities to come together after a busy year.
Public holidays in Nigeria traditionally lead to closures of government offices, some financial markets and many businesses, as workers take time off to celebrate and spend time with family. The Nigerian Exchange Group, foreign exchange markets and other key institutions are expected to suspend trading on these dates, with businesses adjusting operations to reflect the reduced working days.
The announcement comes as many Nigerians are already planning travel, religious services and cultural events associated with the festive period. Christmas in Nigeria is widely celebrated, not only as a religious event by Christians but also as a communal occasion that influences social and economic activity across cities and towns.
This festive break offers a pause from daily routines and an opportunity for reflection on the year past. It also highlights how formal holiday declarations help shape social rhythms, enabling families to reunite and communities to celebrate together.
Overall, the official confirmation of the holiday dates provides clarity for employers, workers and public institutions as the country prepares to celebrate Christmas and usher in the New Year.
