The Federal Government has declared December 25 (Christmas Day), December 26 (Boxing Day), and January 1, 2026 (New Year’s Day) as public holidays.
Minister of Interior Dr Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo, in a statement signed by Permanent Secretary Dr Magdalene Ajani, extended warm seasonal greetings to Christians and Nigerians at large.
He advised citizens to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, describing them as essential for national unity and harmony.
Tunji‑Ojo encouraged Nigerians to use the festive season to pray for peace, security, and progress, while supporting government efforts at national development.
“The Christmas season and the New Year present an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of unity, show compassion to one another, and renew our collective commitment to nation‑building,” he said.
He also advised citizens to remain law‑abiding, security conscious, and moderate in their celebrations.
Police Deploy Nationwide for Safe Festive Season
Meanwhile, the Inspector‑General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has ordered the tactical deployment of personnel and operational assets across the country to ensure peaceful and crime‑free celebrations.
Force spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin said the directive is part of the police’s proactive security policy for the festive season.
Zonal AIGs and State Command CPs have been tasked to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence‑led operations, and confidence‑building engagements.
Specialised units—including the Police Mobile Force, Counter‑Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Command, Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police, and the Air‑wing—are on heightened readiness.
Deployment will focus on places of worship, recreational centres, markets, transport hubs, highways, and critical infrastructure.
Additional patrols and surveillance teams have been activated to cover inter‑state routes and major expressways, aimed at preventing road crimes, traffic disorder, and accidents.
Commands have also been directed to sustain raids on black spots, forests, and criminal hideouts, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders.
The IGP urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, celebrate responsibly, and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or emergency lines.
He assured citizens of the police’s steadfast commitment to securing the Yuletide season and beyond.
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