The Nigerian government has declared Monday 27th, Tuesday 28th December 2021 and Monday, 3rd January 2022 as public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year Day celebrations respectively.
This was made known by the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, in a statement by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Shuaib Belgore, on Wednesday.
Aregbesola enjoined Christians to practice the doctrines of Christ, which included but not limited to these – faith, hope and love.
He was quoted as saying, “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.”
He emphasised that peace and security are two critical conditions for economic development and prosperity.
He urged Christians and Nigerians to make the best use of this festive period to pray for the total eradication of insecurity bedevilling the nation.
Aregbesola also charged Nigerians not to be lulled into a false sense of security on the COVID-19 pandemic but to note that it is increasingly assuming a very dangerous and harmful dimension with the emergence of a virulent variant, Omicron.
“This calls for deliberate responsibility and discipline on the part of all,” he added.
Aregbesola urged all Nigerians to adhere strictly to and observe all the stipulated non-pharmaceutical protocols and guidelines such as wearing of facemasks, frequent washing of hands with soap and water, using of hand sanitizer and avoidance of large groups.
Speaking further, the Minister said the Yuletide called for spartan discipline in order to prevent the spread of the virus in the community and the nation as a whole.
Aregbesola says “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.”
Credit: SaharaReporters