Extra Public Holiday Declared as FG Extends Eid-el-Fitr Celebration
In a move aimed at accommodating the religious observance of the Muslim Ummah, the FG of Nigeria has extended the Eid-el-Fitr holiday to Thursday, April 11, 2024. This decision comes in the wake of the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan, a period marked by fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
The announcement was made via a statement released by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Aishetu Ndayako, on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, through the ministry’s official social media account.
“The Federal Government has approved Thursday, April 11, 2024, as an additional public holiday to celebrate this year’s Eid-El-Fitr,” the statement affirmed.
This declaration underscores the government’s commitment to respecting and honoring the religious traditions of its citizens. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, extended warm congratulations to the Muslim Ummah for their dedication and devotion throughout the month of Ramadan.
FG of Nigeria has Extended the Eid-el-Fitr Holiday to Thursday: FG’s Eid-el-Fitr Extension Reflects Commitment to Unity and Inclusivity
“The Minister…reiterates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s firm commitment to providing a safe and prosperous Nigeria for all to thrive,” the statement continued, emphasizing the government’s dedication to fostering a harmonious and inclusive society.
The decision to extend the holiday follows earlier speculation reported by journalists on Monday, April 8, 2024, regarding the possibility of an additional day being added to the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. Initially, the Federal Government had declared Tuesday and Wednesday as public holidays in anticipation of the end of Ramadan fasting on Monday.
However, the sighting of the crescent moon, which traditionally marks the conclusion of Ramadan and the beginning of the new Islamic month of Shawwal, did not occur on Monday. As a result, Muslims were required to observe an additional day of fasting, leading to a shift in the holiday schedule.
The decision to extend the holiday aligns with the announcement by Saudi Arabia’s authorities confirming the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. This coordination ensures consistency with global Islamic practices and allows Nigerian Muslims to celebrate in unity with the international Muslim community.
In conclusion, the extension of the Eid-el-Fitr holiday demonstrates the Federal Government’s responsiveness to the needs and traditions of its diverse population, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and religious harmony within the nation.
This has got me speechless.
This is a great news and the holiday is needed to enable work have a little rest from work, this will improve health status of everyone.
Nice one