Written by Omeiza Ajayi – Abuja
The federal government declared Friday, December 25, and Monday, December 28, 2020, as well as Friday, January 1, 2021, public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day, and the New Year.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of the Interior, Dr. Shuaib ML Belgore, who revealed this in a statement issued Wednesday in Abuja, added that Interior Minister Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola made the statement on behalf of the Federal Government.
The Minister congratulated Christians and all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, on this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations.
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 the birth and ministry of Jesus Christ marked, 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 key factors needed for the Government to realize 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.
In particular, he 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, who reiterated the federal government’s commitment to fighting armed robbery, kidnappings 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 strengthen intelligence gathering.
“Warning all Nigerians to stay focused, determined, patient and patriotic, Aregbesola expressed confidence that 2021 will be better for all Nigerians and therefore called on Christians to use this period to pray for Nigeria.
“He especially wished all Nigerians and Christians a happy Christmas and New Year celebration,” the statement added.
Vanguard News Nigeria