The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the federal government on Friday, December 22.
In a statement signed by the acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Peter Egbodo, Tunji-Ojo enjoined Christians to emulate the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings of humility, service, compassion, patience, peace, and righteousness that His birth signifies.
He emphasized that peace and security are critical prerequisites for economic development and prosperity.
The federal government has declared Monday 25, Tuesday, 26 December 2023, and Monday, January 1st, 2024, as public holidays to mark Christmas and New Year’s Day celebrations respectively.