The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Friday, April 3, and Monday, April 6, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Easter celebration across the country.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who extended warm congratulations to Christians in Nigeria and those in the diaspora on the occasion.
According to the minister, Friday will be observed as Good Friday, while Monday will mark Easter Monday. Both days are traditionally recognized worldwide as part of the Easter festivities, commemorating the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
“I congratulate all Christians in Nigeria and in the diaspora on the joyous occasion of Easter,” Tunji-Ojo said in his statement. “I urge Nigerians to embrace the virtues of selflessness, forgiveness, forbearance, and love as exemplified by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.”
He emphasized the significance of Easter as a period of reflection, renewal, and spiritual growth, encouraging citizens to use the season to promote peace and harmony within their communities.
The minister also called for unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, noting that the values associated with Easter are essential for national cohesion and development.
“Easter reminds us of the values of tolerance and community that hold us together as a nation. Nigerians should remain committed to these ideals for the progress of our country,” he added.
Tunji-Ojo further reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government to implementing policies and programmes aimed at driving national development and improving the welfare of citizens. He stated that the administration remains focused on fostering economic growth and ensuring that the benefits of governance are widely shared.
“The goal of the government remains taking decisions that will bring about national rebirth, economic growth, and shared prosperity for all Nigerians,” he said.
He concluded his message by wishing Christians a peaceful and joyous Easter celebration, urging them to celebrate responsibly and in the spirit of unity and goodwill.
The declaration of public holidays for Easter is in line with longstanding tradition in Nigeria, where both Good Friday and Easter Monday are observed as national holidays, allowing Christians across the country to participate in religious activities and spend time with family and loved ones.
As preparations for the Easter celebration gather momentum, many churches are expected to hold special services, including Good Friday observances and Easter Sunday celebrations, which typically draw large congregations.
Security agencies are also expected to intensify efforts to ensure the safety of lives and property during the holiday period, as increased travel and public gatherings are anticipated across major cities and rural communities alike.
The Easter season remains one of the most significant periods in the Christian calendar, symbolizing hope, sacrifice, and renewal. For many Nigerians, it also provides an opportunity to reflect on the state of the nation and reaffirm their commitment to unity, peace, and collective progress.
With the public holidays now officially declared, citizens are expected to make adequate plans to observe the period meaningfully while adhering to laws and maintaining public order.
