The Federal Government don drop the holiday gist! Get ready for a long weekend as April 18 (Good Friday) and April 21, 2025 (Easter Monday) have been declared public holidays. Time to flex, catch cruise, and spend time with family!
Quick Rundown of What’s Up:
- Holiday Alert: Friday, April 18, and Monday, April 21, 2025, are public holidays.
- Reason for the Season: Good Friday and Easter Monday celebrations.
- Minister Talk: Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement.
- What to Do: Reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice, pray for Naija, and enjoy the break!
Confirmed: FG Declares Easter Holidays!
Confirming what many were low-key anticipating, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has officially declared Friday, April 18, and Monday, April 21, 2025, as public holidays. This is to allow Christians celebrate Good Friday and Easter Monday in peace and with their loved ones.
Why Easter is a Big Deal
Easter isn’t just another holiday on the calendar; it’s a cornerstone of the Christian faith. It commemorates the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christians believe Jesus’ resurrection signifies victory over death and the promise of eternal life.
Did you know that Easter’s date changes every year? It’s based on the lunar calendar, specifically the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. This explains why Easter can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25.
Minister’s Call to Action
In the official statement released by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, the Minister, Tunji-Ojo urged Christians to take a moment to reflect on the profound values of sacrifice and love exemplified by Jesus Christ. He emphasized the ultimate sacrifice made for the redemption of mankind, a core tenet of Christian belief.
Furthermore, he called on all Nigerians to use this holiday period as an opportunity to offer prayers for the peace, unity, and overall stability of the nation. As Nigeria faces various challenges, collective prayers are seen as a way to foster a sense of national cohesion and resilience.
Easter Celebrations Around the World: Beyond Nigeria
While the core message of Easter remains consistent, the way it’s celebrated varies greatly across different cultures. In some European countries, Easter bonfires are lit to symbolize the light of Christ. In Australia, Easter bilbies (a rabbit-like marsupial) are promoted to raise awareness about endangered native animals.
Here’s a small table highlighting some unique Easter traditions:
| Country | Tradition | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Greece | Cracking red eggs | Symbolizes the breaking of Jesus’ tomb and the blood of Christ. |
| Sweden | Easter witches | Children dress up as witches and go door-to-door collecting candy. |
| Poland | Śmigus-dyngus (Water Fight) | People playfully douse each other with water, symbolizing cleansing and renewal. |
Wishing You a Happy Easter!
From all of us, we dey wish every Christian for Naija a peaceful and joyous Easter celebration! Make una chop rice well well and remember to spread love and happiness. But remember, drink responsibly!
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