GistNexus – March 27, 2025.
The Nigerian Federal Government has finally declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as public holidays to mark Eid-el-Fitr. The announcement was made on Wednesday, March 26, by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani.
Significance of Eid-el-Fitr
Eid-el-Fitr, or the ‘festival of breaking the fast,’ is Islam’s most important festival. It marks the end of Ramadan, the fasting month, spiritual reflection, and prayer, which is celebrated by Muslims all over the world. Muslims fast from dawn to dusk during Ramadan, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. The month is meant to develop self-discipline, spiritual growth, and commitment to Allah.
For Ramadan, in addition to avoiding eating and drinking, Muslims perform special acts of prayer, contemplation, and giving alms. Self-control, empathy, and generosity mark the holy month with its climax on the day of celebration called Eid-el-Fitr.
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Customs and Celebration of Eid-el-Fitr
A distinctive congregational prayer is unique to Eid-el-Fitr, usually performed in mosques or open grounds where the faithful usually congregate to pray. It marks the official opening of the celebration. The celebration extends beyond worship, including feasting, presenting gifts, and charity. Distributing Zakat al-Fitr, which is obligatory charity, is among the significant traditions witnessed during Eid. Muslims are required to give the charity to poor people before performing the Eid prayer so that everyone can participate in the celebration regardless of their possessions.
The celebration, besides being a time of celebration and gratitude by Muslims, is also a time to be kind, charitable, and civic. Tunji-Ojo, in his proclamation, commended Nigerian Muslims for a great performance during Ramadan fasting and urged them to continue adopting self-restraint, tolerance, and peacefulness.
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A Message of Peace and Unity by the Minister of Interior
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo also seized the moment to call on all Nigerians to consider the message of Ramadan and Eid. He spoke of love, peace, and harmony as the necessary things and called upon citizens to join hands regardless of their religious and cultural affiliations. In his message, he said, “As we celebrate today’s Eid-el-Fitr, let us not forget the lessons of Ramadan, embrace one another with love and forgiveness, and stand together to build a more together and prosperous Nigeria.”
Tunji-Ojo’s message also emphasized not only the religious significance of Eid but also that it had the potential to unite individuals more and promote national development. The minister urged Nigerians to take advantage of this celebratory period as an opportunity to pray for Nigeria’s peace, stability, and prosperity. His message emphasized the role of religious festivities in national concord, urging all to work towards a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
Encouraging Responsible Celebrations
In his speech, the Minister of Interior also appealed to Nigerians to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr responsibly. This is a matter of respecting safety protocols and being mindful of other people’s lives. Tunji-Ojo stressed that acts of kindness and charity should be extended to people, particularly those who are less privileged, during this season of celebration.
The spirit of charity and generosity that underpins Ramadan and Eid is incorporated into the celebrations of the Nigerian Muslim society. It is a time when people are reminded to be compassionate and take an active role in others’ welfare. The Federal Government’s announcement of public holiday provides a window of opportunity for all to enjoy the festive day in the spirit and joy of reunion which Eid-el-Fitr embodies.
Minister’s Eid Mubarak Message to Muslims
Dr. Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government, extended his warmest Eid Mubarak to all Muslim believers across Nigeria. He prayed that the blessings in this time would be a source of joy, peace, and satisfaction to everyone. The Minister’s message was an invitation for increased unity, peace, and generosity that he emphasized must extend beyond the Eid celebration and reverberate throughout the year.
As Nigeria prepares to mark this important religious occasion, the Federal Government’s declaration of a two-day public holiday presents an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on the virtues of peace, love, and compassion, as they celebrate the passing of Ramadan and the arrival of Eid-el-Fitr.
The Entire Staff of GistNexus Wishes Our Muslim Brothers and Sisters Happy Eid-el-Fitr Celebration
The Entire GistNexus Staff is wishing our Muslim friends and family a happy Eid-el-Fitr holiday.
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Contributed by Zainab Usman and Edited by Mr. Chibueze Onwuka