By Collins Obanze, Abuja
The Federal Government has declared Friday, April 3, and Monday, April 6, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Easter celebration, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, peace, and shared national values.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known in a statement released on Wednesday.
According to the minister, the holidays will allow Christians across the country to commemorate Good Friday and Easter Monday, key events in the Christian faith symbolizing sacrifice, renewal, and hope.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Christians in Nigeria and the diaspora on the occasion, calling on citizens to reflect on the virtues exemplified by Jesus Christ, including selflessness, forgiveness, love, and forbearance.
“I congratulate all Christians in Nigeria and in the diaspora on the joyous occasion of Easter.
“I urge Nigerians to imbibe the virtues of selflessness, forgiveness, forbearance, and love as exemplified by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ," he said.
The minister also emphasized the importance of national unity, noting that Easter serves as a reminder of the values that bind Nigerians together despite differences in ethnicity, religion, and culture. He encouraged citizens to remain committed to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect for the progress of the country.
“Easter is a period that reminds us of the values of tolerance and community that keep us together as a nation. Nigerians should remain committed to these ideals for the progress of our country," he said.
Reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to national development, Tunji-Ojo assured that ongoing policies and decisions are aimed at fostering economic growth, national rebirth, and shared prosperity for all citizens.
He, thus wished Christians a peaceful and joyous Easter celebration while encouraging all Nigerians to use the period as an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to nation-building.
