The Federal Government of Nigeria declared Friday, April 18, and Monday, April 21, 2025, as public holidays to mark Good Friday and Easter Monday, respectively, the Ministry of Interior announced Tuesday.
Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo urged Christians to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and embrace compassion, per a statement on Channels TV. The holidays align with Nigeria’s tradition of observing Christian and Islamic festivals, with 2025’s Easter falling amid Lent’s conclusion, observed by 30% of Nigeria’s 220 million people, per Pew Research.
The announcement, made days before the celebrations, prompted businesses to adjust schedules, with Lagos banks confirming early closures on Thursday, April 17, per The Punch. Tunji-Ojo called for peaceful coexistence, citing 2024’s holiday calm, which saw no major incidents, unlike 2023’s 12 road crashes, per FRSC data.
The government also deployed 5,000 police nationwide to secure churches and markets, aiming to deter thefts reported in 2024’s Easter, per Vanguard. Citizens were urged to report suspicious activities during the festive period.