The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Friday, March 29, and Monday, April 1, 2024, as public holidays to commemorate Good Friday and Easter Monday, respectively. 

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the government, in a statement released by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Aishetu Ndayako, on Wednesday.

In the statement, Tunji-Ojo called upon Christians and all Nigerians to reflect on the significance of Easter and to emulate the selfless sacrifice and love demonstrated by Jesus Christ in his crucifixion for the redemption of humanity. 

He emphasized that beyond its religious connotations, Easter promotes values of love, forgiveness, and compassion, which are fundamental for fostering social cohesion and harmony within society.

The minister urged Christians to embody these virtues, emphasizing their potential to positively impact Nigeria’s socio-economic development by promoting unity, reducing conflicts, and fostering cooperation among citizens. He encouraged Nigerians to engage in acts of charity and generosity, particularly towards the less privileged, as a means of demonstrating compassion and solidarity.

Tunji-Ojo emphasized that such gestures align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes national unity, social harmony, and collective prosperity.