FG Declares Public Holiday for Eid-Ul-Adha
In a bid to honour the significant Islamic celebration of Eid-ul-Adha, the Federal Government has officially declared Monday and Tuesday as public holidays. This announcement was made by Dr. Aishetu Gogo Ndayako, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, in a statement released on Friday.
The declaration, made on behalf of the Federal Government by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, extends warm congratulations to the Muslim community both within Nigeria and abroad. The government’s gesture aims to facilitate a period of reflection, peace, and unity among the Muslim Ummah.
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Significance of the Eid-Ul-Adha Celebration
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon Him) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. This festival is marked by prayers, feasts, and acts of charity. The Federal Government’s declaration of a public holiday underscores the importance of this event and its values of peace, kindness, and sacrifice.
Message from the Minister of Interior
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasized the importance of embodying the spirit of Eid-ul-Adha through acts of peace, kindness, and sacrifice. He urged the Muslim community to use this time to pray for the unity, prosperity, and stability of Nigeria. The Minister reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians.
Unity and Prosperity: Core Themes of the Public Holiday
The declaration of this public holiday serves as a reminder for all Nigerians to reflect on their collective responsibility towards building a prosperous nation. The government encourages every citizen to partake in the resolve to hand over a better Nigeria to future generations.
Official Statements and Festivities
The Sultan of Sokoto’s Announcement
On June 7, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, officially declared Sunday, June 16, as Eid-el-Kabir day, marking the first day of Dhul Hijjah. This announcement was confirmed through a statement by Sambo Junaid, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs to the Sultanate Council in Sokoto State.
Sultan’s Felicitations
The Sultan extended his heartfelt felicitations to the Muslim Ummah, wishing them Allah’s guidance and blessings during this sacred period. He urged the community to continue praying for the peace, progress, and development of Nigeria. The Sultanate Council’s statement also conveyed wishes for a happy and spiritually fulfilling Eid-El-Kabir, with a prayer for the acceptance of all religious deeds.
Government’s Assurance and Call to Action
The Federal Government, under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, reassures Nigerians of its commitment to ensuring safety and prosperity. The Minister of Interior’s message highlights the collective effort needed to foster a peaceful and progressive nation.
Public Holiday: Embracing the Spirit of Eid-ul-Adha
As Nigerians prepare to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, the public holiday provides an opportunity to embrace the festival’s essence fully. Families gather for prayers, share festive meals, and engage in acts of charity, reinforcing the values of sacrifice and compassion.
Reflection and Hope for the Future
This public holiday not only honors a significant religious event but also serves as a period for reflection and hope. The government’s initiative underscores the importance of unity and collective effort in achieving national progress. As the nation celebrates, the values of peace, kindness, and sacrifice remain at the forefront of this festive period.
FAQs
What dates have been declared as public holidays for Eid-ul-Adha? The Federal Government has declared Monday and Tuesday as public holidays to mark the Eid-ul-Adha celebration.
Who made the announcement regarding the public holiday for Eid-ul-Adha? The announcement was made by Dr. Aishetu Gogo Ndayako, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, on behalf of the Federal Government.
What is the significance of Eid-ul-Adha? Eid-ul-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon Him) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. It is a festival that celebrates sacrifice, charity, and community.
What message did the Minister of Interior convey to the Muslim community? The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, encouraged the Muslim Ummah to embody the spirit of peace, kindness, and sacrifice during Eid-ul-Adha and to pray for the unity and prosperity of Nigeria.
When did the Sultan of Sokoto declare Eid-el-Kabir day? The Sultan of Sokoto declared Sunday, June 16, as Eid-el-Kabir day, following the confirmation that Friday marked the first day of Dhul Hijjah.
How is the government ensuring the safety and prosperity of Nigerians during this period? The government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians, encouraging everyone to contribute to building a prosperous nation.
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