The Federal Government has declared Friday, 21 April and Monday, 24 April as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid el-Fitr celebration.
The Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, according to a statement by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, obtained on Wednesday.
He congratulated all Muslims for the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.
Aregbesola called on all Muslims to imbibe and practice the virtues of kindness, love, tolerance, peace, self-denial, sacrifice and good neighbourliness, as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him).
“The self-restraint, self-denial, sacrifice and deep spiritual consciousness that accompanied the fasting period should not end but be maintained and improved upon, in order to be a better person and true worshipper,” the minister advised all Muslims.
Aregbesola assured that President Muhammadu Buhari was fully committed to a peaceful transition of government following successful elections.
He also gave assurances of the government’s commitment to the provision of security for the life and property of every citizen and foreigner in the country.
The minister commended all security agencies for the successes recorded in the fight against criminals across the country.
He urged Nigerians to be part of the nation’s security architecture by being vigilant and reporting suspicious individuals and activities to law enforcement agencies nearest to them, noting that security was everybody’s responsibility.
He admonished Nigerians to report suspicious activities and persons to security agencies.
Aregbesola wished all Muslims a happy Eid el-Fitr celebration and prayed “that the peace, blessings and favour of Allah be with you all. Ameen.”
