Adelani Adepegba, Abuja
The federal government has declared Friday, December 25, Monday, December 28, 2020 and Friday, January 1, 2021, public holidays to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day and the New Year.
Interior Minister Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola announced this on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Dr. Shuaib Belgore on Wednesday.
It was entitled: ‘FG proclaims December 25, 28, 2020; January 1, 2021, public holidays. ‘
The Minister congratulated Christians and all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, on the celebration of Christmas and New Year.
Aregbesola called on Christians to adopt Christ’s belief in faith, hope, and love.
“We must emulate the life of humility, service, compassion, patience, peace and righteousness that marked the birth and service of Jesus Christ, which will be the best way to get to know Christ and celebrate his birth,” he said.
The Minister noted that peace and security are crucial factors needed for the government to fulfill its mission of revitalizing the economy, improving foreign direct investment, and creating employment opportunities for over 100 million Nigerian youth in the next 10 years.
Aregbesola specifically advised Nigerians and Christians to strictly adhere to the COVID-19 protocols and guidelines, as prescribed by the competent authorities, during and after yuletida, especially with the second wave of disease outbreaks.
The minister, reiterating FG’s commitment to fighting robbery, kidnapping and other crimes and crimes in the country, called on Nigerians to support the efforts of security agencies by providing them with information that will boost intelligence gathering.
Warning all Nigerians to stay focused, determined, patient and patriotic, Aregbesola expressed confidence that 2021 will be a better year for all Nigerians.
He therefore called on Christians to use this period to pray for Nigeria.
He wished all Nigerians and Christians especially happy Christmas and New Year celebrations.
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