The federal government is expected to declare Friday, December 25, and Saturday, December 26, 2026, as public holidays to mark Christmas Day and Boxing Day respectively.
The two holidays will bring Nigeria’s calendar of federally recognised public holidays for 2026 to a close.
Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25 by Christians around the world to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
How Christmas Became a Global Celebration
Over the centuries, Christmas has grown beyond its religious origins into a widely observed cultural celebration.
Families and communities often mark the period by gathering together, exchanging gifts and greeting cards, decorating their homes and putting up Christmas trees.
Boxing Day follows Christmas Day and is also recognised as a public holiday in Nigeria and several other countries.
Christmas Traditions Have Evolved Over Time
The use of greenery such as holly, ivy and evergreen trees is among the longstanding traditions associated with Christmas celebrations.
Although many people now associate December 25 with the birth of Jesus, early Christians did not traditionally observe an annual celebration of his birth. Their major focus was on Easter and the commemoration of his resurrection.
The association between December 25 and Christ’s birth developed gradually as Christianity spread over the centuries.
While December 25 is the date observed by most Christian denominations, some Eastern Orthodox churches celebrate Christmas on January 7.
The difference is linked to the use of the Julian calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar followed by Catholic and Protestant churches and much of the world.
Nigeria’s Remaining Public Holidays for 2026
With Independence Day already observed on October 1, the December holidays are expected to be the final federally recognised public holidays of the year.
The dates are:
- Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
- Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Why Public Holidays Matter
For many Nigerians, public holidays provide an opportunity to step away from the demands of work and everyday responsibilities.
The breaks give workers and people in the informal sector time to rest, spend time with family, travel, attend religious activities or simply take a break from their usual routines.
For many, the Christmas period also provides an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and enjoy the festive season after a busy year.
