The Federal Government has declared Monday December 27 and Tuesday, December 28, 2021 and Monday, January 3, 2022 as public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day celebrations.
In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Shuaib Belgore, the Minister Rauf Aregbesola, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, felicitates with Christians and all Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Aregbesola enjoins Christians to practice the virtues of Christianity, which include but not limited to faith, hope and love.
“We must emulate the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings on Humility, Service, Compassion, Patience, Peace and Righteousness, that His birth signifies. This will be the best way to portray Christ and celebrate his birth”.
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He also emphasised that peace and security are two critical conditions for economic development and prosperity, while urging Christians and Nigerians to make the best use of this festive period to pray for the total eradication of insecurity bedevilling the country.
Speaking further, the Minister said this Yuletide calls for spartan discipline in order to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 in the community and the country as a whole. “Moderately celebrate the festival without large groupings and observe all the protocols stipulated by medical authorities. Take it as a point of personal responsibility to prevent the spread of the virus”.
He admonishes all citizens to remain focused and expresses confidence that the year 2022 would be a better year for us all.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
