The Federal Government has approved this Friday and next Monday, as public holidays to commemorate this year’s Easter celebrations across the country.
The announcement covers Good Friday and Easter Monday, marking one of the most significant periods in the Christian calendar.
The declaration was conveyed in an official statement issued by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who confirmed the dates ahead of the annual Christian observance.
The minister explained that the holidays align with established national tradition, where key religious festivals are formally recognised as public holidays in Nigeria.
According to the statement, the Federal Government reiterated its commitment to maintaining inclusivity by acknowledging major religious celebrations observed by Nigeria’s diverse population.
The move is consistent with the country’s long-standing practice of designating public holidays for both Christian and Muslim festivities as part of efforts to foster unity and mutual respect.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Christians in Nigeria and in the diaspora on the occasion of Easter, describing the celebration as a time of spiritual reflection, renewal, and sacrifice.
He noted that the season symbolises the core Christian belief in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which carries lessons of hope and redemption.
He urged Nigerians to embrace values associated with the Easter period, including love, forgiveness, selflessness, and tolerance.
According to him, these virtues are essential not only during religious celebrations but also in everyday interactions among citizens of different backgrounds.
The minister further called on Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing that mutual respect among individuals of different faiths and cultures remains critical to national stability.
He emphasised that the country’s diversity should be viewed as a strength rather than a source of division.
Tunji-Ojo also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s broader commitment to policies aimed at promoting economic growth, national development, and improved living standards. He encouraged citizens to remain optimistic and supportive of ongoing efforts to address national challenges.
In addition, he advised Nigerians to use the Easter holidays as an opportunity to foster goodwill, reconnect with family and community members, and celebrate responsibly. He also urged adherence to safety guidelines during the holiday period to ensure a peaceful and incident-free celebration.
The announcement comes weeks after the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr by Muslims nationwide in March 2026, highlighting Nigeria’s sequence of major religious observances within its annual calendar. The recognition of both Christian and Islamic festivals reflects the country’s multi-religious composition and its approach to promoting inclusiveness through public policy.
