The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Wednesday, 27th September 2023, as a public holiday.
This declaration comes in honour of the occasion of Eid-ul-Maulid, the celebration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement during a press conference held in Abuja on Monday.
He expressed his heartfelt congratulations to all Muslim faithful, both within Nigeria and those residing in the diaspora, as they prepare to mark this significant religious event.
In a statement released by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Oluwatoyin Akinlade, Tunji-Ojo emphasised the importance of embracing the values and virtues exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad.
He stated, “His admonition to Nigerians is to imbibe the spirit of love, patience, tolerance, and perseverance, which are deep spiritual virtues that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified.”
Furthermore, Minister Tunji-Ojo called upon all Nigerians, particularly the youth, to adopt the virtues of hard work and a peaceful disposition towards fellow citizens, regardless of differences in faith, ideology, social class, or ethnicity.
He urged citizens to unite and collaborate with the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in their collective efforts to construct a progressive and admirable nation that every citizen can take pride in.
In closing, the Minister extended warm wishes to all Muslim faithful, wishing them a joyful and spiritually fulfilling celebration of Eid-ul-Maulid.
This public holiday stands as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to religious diversity and the importance of recognising and celebrating the cultural and spiritual heritage of its citizens.
