The Nigerian Government has declared Thursday, July 30, and Friday, July 31 as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.A statement released in Abuja late on Tuesday by the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Interior, Georgina Ehuriah, said that the Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, urged Muslims to continue to imbibe the spirit of love, peace, kindness, and sacrifice, as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

The minister also called on Muslims to use the period to pray for peace, unity, prosperity, and the stability of the country, especially now that the world is witnessing global health challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He assured every Nigerian that the government will continue to foster peaceful coexistence, national cohesion and stability in its march towards actualizing the nation’s full potentials.

The minister advised Nigerians to take responsibility against the spread of the COVID-19 virus and urging the citizens to stay safe by observing physical and social distancing, personal and respiratory hygiene, as well as other protocols issued by the relevant authorities.