Eid-el-Fitr: FG Declares March 31 and April 1 Public Holidays
Minister Calls for Unity, Compassion, and Prayers for National Progress
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as public holidays to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement released on Wednesday by Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior.
Eid-el-Fitr
A Time for Reflection and Unity
Extending warm Eid Mubarak wishes to all Muslims in Nigeria, Dr. Tunji-Ojo congratulated the faithful on completing their month-long fasting and spiritual devotion. He encouraged everyone to embrace the core values of Ramadan, including:
✔ Self-discipline
✔ Compassion
✔ Generosity
✔ Peaceful coexistence
The minister emphasized that forgiveness, love, and solidarity are essential in fostering a harmonious and progressive society.
Call for National Prayers and Acts of Kindness
Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged all Nigerians, regardless of religious background, to use this festive season to pray for:
🔹 Peace and stability across the country
🔹 Economic prosperity and national development
🔹 Unity across ethnic and religious lines
He also encouraged responsible celebrations, urging citizens to remember the less privileged by extending kindness and charity—core principles of Eid-el-Fitr.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo Minister of Interior
“Let us celebrate safely and responsibly, keeping the true spirit of Ramadan alive by showing generosity to those in need,” the statement read.
How Eid-el-Fitr is Celebrated in Nigeria
Eid-el-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most significant religious celebrations for Muslims worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. The country, home to one of the largest Muslim populations in Africa, observes Eid with festivity, devotion, and cultural vibrancy.
1. Eid Prayers and Religious Gatherings
🔹 The day begins with special prayers at mosques and open fields known as Eid grounds, where thousands of worshippers gather.
🔹 Imams deliver sermons on peace, gratitude, and unity before leading the prayers.
🔹 Muslims dress in their finest traditional attire, often in newly sewn kaftans, agbadas, hijabs, and abayas.
2. Feasting and Family Gatherings
🔹 Families and communities prepare and share lavish meals, featuring traditional dishes like:
✔ Jollof rice & fried rice
✔ Masa & miyan taushe (popular in Northern Nigeria)
✔ Suya, grilled chicken, and spicy stews
✔ Sweets and drinks to mark the end of fasting
3. Giving to the Needy (Zakat al-Fitr)
🔹 A major aspect of Eid is charity (Zakat al-Fitr), where Muslims donate food, money, or essentials to those in need.
🔹 Many mosques and organizations distribute food packs to orphans, widows, and the underprivileged.
4. Cultural Festivities and Entertainment
🔹 Various cities, especially in the north and southwest, hold durbar festivals, featuring royal horse parades and drumming.
🔹 Music, traditional dances, and social gatherings make the celebration lively.
🔹 Children receive Eid gifts, known as “Eidi,” from elders.
5. Visits and Strengthening Bonds
🔹 It is a time for forgiveness and reconciliation, where people visit relatives, friends, and neighbors.
🔹 Even non-Muslims often partake in the celebration, reflecting Nigeria’s spirit of religious tolerance.
Eid-el-Fitr: A Season of Joy and Gratitude
On behalf of the Federal Government, the minister prayed for happiness, success, and fulfillment for all Nigerians, wishing the Muslim community a truly blessed Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
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