- Safiu Kehinde
The Federal Government has declared Friday as a public holiday in celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
This was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Ministry of Interior’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
According to the statement, the public holiday was declared by the Interior Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
While felicitating with Muslims Umah in Nigeria and across the world, the minister, as quoted by Ajani, enjoined the Muslim faithful to reflect on the virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
He stressed that these values remain essential in building a united, prosperous, and progressive nation.
Tunji-Ojo further called on Nigerians, regardless of their religious beliefs, to use the occasion to pray for the peace, security, and stability of the country, while supporting the Federal Government’s efforts in fostering national harmony and sustainable development.
“The celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid offers us yet another opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, promote peaceful coexistence, and imbibe the Prophet’s teachings of mutual respect and selfless service to humanity,” the Minister stated.
He also urged citizens to remain law-abiding, security conscious, and supportive of government policies aimed at ensuring the collective well-being of all Nigerians. The Minister wishes all Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration.