FG declares Monday, Tuesday public holidays as Muslims mark Eid-el-Fitr
By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
The Federal Government has declared Monday and Tuesday (March 31 and April 1) as public holidays in observance of the Eid-el-Fitr.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on Thursday.
Tunji-Ojo stated that the holidays are intended to enable Muslim faithful to celebrate the successful completion of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. He extended his congratulations to the Muslim Ummah and encouraged them to uphold the values of self-discipline, compassion, generosity, and peace cultivated during Ramadan.
The Minister also called on Nigerians to use the festive period for reflection, unity, and acts of charity, emphasizing the importance of fostering national peace and stability. He expressed optimism that the Eid-el-Fitr celebration would serve as a unifying force, bridging religious and ethnic divides across the country.
Furthermore, Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and safely while remembering the less privileged through acts of kindness and generosity. He conveyed his heartfelt Eid Mubarak wishes to all Muslim faithful and prayed that the blessings of the season bring happiness, success, and fulfillment to all.
In a statement released to the press on Wednesday, the Minister underscored the significance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity in building a harmonious society. He encouraged Nigerians to use the holiday period for prayer, reflection, and acts of goodwill toward one another.
The declaration of public holidays for Eid-el-Fitr aligns with Nigeria’s tradition of recognizing and celebrating major religious festivals. The government’s decision is aimed at ensuring that Muslims can observe their prayers and festivities without hindrance.
Eid-el-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, is a significant event in the Islamic calendar. It is a time for Muslims around the world to come together with family and friends, share meals, exchange gifts, and engage in charitable acts. The celebration follows a month-long fast, during which Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset as an act of devotion and spiritual purification.
