The Federal Government, FG, through the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has declared Monday 27th, and Tuesday 28th December 2021, as public holidays for Christmas celebrations.
Similarly, Monday, 3rd January 2022, was also declared as the public holidays to mark New Year’s Day festivities.
While declaring the selected days for the Yuletide holidays, Minister Aregbesola enjoined Nigerians to celebrate moderately, and to avoid large groups due to the ravaging Omicron variant of Covid 19.
He said Nigerians must take it as a personal responsibility to see that they adhere to Covid 19 protocols even during the celebrations and must be deliberate and discipline to see that there is no spread of the virulent Omicron.
He advised Nigerians to swiftly report any suspected case of persons with the deadly virus around them to medical authorities before it is too late especially during this festive season; adding that, the government has put in place, effective measures for the security of lives and properties for a smooth Yuletide celebrations.
Aregbesola emphasized that, Nigerians are expected to support the government’s efforts, by providing useful information to security agencies whenever needed before, during and after the holiday periods.
On behalf of the government, Minister Aregbesola wished Christians, home and abroad, and all Nigerians, a Merry Christmas, and a prosperous 2022.
He however advised Christians to emulate the teachings of Jesus Christ in humility, service, compassion, patience, peace, and righteousness; while also admonishing them to pray against insecurity bedeviling the country.