Wednesday, December 19 and Thursday, December 20, have been declared public holidays to mark the 2007 Eid el-Kabir, according to a Federal Government statement on Thursday.
The statement, signed by the Chief Press Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Tope Ajakaiye, said that Tuesday, December 25 and Wednesday 26, have also been declared public holidays for the celebration of Christmas.
It added that Tuesday, January 1, 2008 has equally been declared public holiday for the celebration of 2008 New Year.
According to the statement, Interior Minster, Godwin Abbe, who made the announcement on behalf of the Federal Government, wished all Nigerians at home and abroad joyous celebrations.
“He enjoined all to use this season of celebrating both the Muslim and Christian festivals to reflect on the teachings in the Holy Books where emphasis is placed on the virtues of love and peaceful co-existence,” said the statement.
It quoted the minister as urging all Nigerians to pray for the peace and progress of the nation in the New Year.