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By Emmanuel Adeleke
Ahead of the 2024 Easter celebrations, the Federal Government has declared Friday, March 29 and Monday, April 1, 2024 as public holidays.
Minister of interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announce the holidays in a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Aishetu Ndayako, on Wednesday.
Tunji-Ojo urged Christians and Nigerians in general to emulate the sacrifice and love displayed by Jesus Christ in dying for the redemption of man.
“Easter, beyond religious significance, promotes values of love, forgiveness, and compassion, which are essential for social cohesion and harmony,” the statement read.
The minister called on Christians to imbibe these virtues as they are capable of impacting positively on the socio-economic development of Nigeria by fostering unity, reducing conflicts and encouraging cooperation among Nigerians.
He further urged Nigerians to show acts of charity and generosity to help alleviate the material conditions of the less privileged amongst them, adding that this was in tandem with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
While wishing Christians at home and abroad a happy and blissful Easter celebration, the minister called on Nigerians to join hands with President Bola Tinubu-led administration in its determination to bring sustainable development and usher in prosperity for all.