As Nigerians join Christians all over the world to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Federal Government has declared Friday, March 29 and Monday, April 1, 2024 as public holidays to mark the 2024 Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively.
Making the announcement, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo urged Christians and all Nigerians to emulate the sacrifice and love displayed by Jesus Christ in laying down his life for the redemption of mankind.
The declaration was contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Aishetu Ndayako, where the minister explained that Easter, beyond its religious significance, promotes values of love, forgiveness and compassion which are essential for social cohesion and harmony.
Tunji-ojo called on Christians to imbibe the aforementioned virtues, saying they are capable of impacting positively on the socio-economic development of Nigeria by fostering unity, reducing conflicts and encouraging cooperation among Nigerians.
The minister also urged Nigerians to show acts of charity and generosity to help alleviate the material conditions of the less privileged amongst them in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.
While wishing Christians at home and abroad a happy and blissful Easter celebration, he also called on Nigerians to join hands with the Tinubu-led administration in its determination to bring sustainable development and usher in prosperity to all.