By Kingsley Unah
The Federal Government has declared Monday 25th, Tuesday 26th December, 2023 and Monday, January, 1st 2024 as public holidays to mark Christmas and New Year Day celebrations respectively.
In a statement to this effect, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians for experiencing yet another Christmas celebration and wished them a fruitful and a memorable celebrations and a prosperous new year in advance.
Dr Tunji-Ojo used the occasion to urge Christians and all Nigerians to extol the virtues of Jesus Christ by emulating his life which signifies love, patience, humility, selfless service, compassion, and righteousness.
Tunji-Ojo further emphasized that, peace and security are critical tools for economic development and prosperity of every nation.
On this note, the Minister assured that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will continue to proactively put in place pragmatic measures to ensure the safety of lives and properties of Nigerians during and after the celebrations.
He also urged Nigerians to be security conscious, and report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agencies.
He stated that the season do not only call for merriment alone, but for sober reflection and discipline, saying this will go a long way in curtailing the avalanche of security threats to lives and property.
Dr Tunji-Ojo appealed to all Citizens to remain focused and refrain from all forms of Social vices that is capable of truncating the peace and tranquility of the celebration, adding that the year 2024 will be a better year for all especially with the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr President that is in place.