Eid-el-Fitr: Nigerian Government extends public holiday

The Nigerian government has released the statement below extending the Eid-el-Fitri holiday in the country by one day.

“Following the directive by the President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, to the effect that the Ramadan fast continues today (Tuesday) as a result of the non-sighting of the moon, the Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th July, 2016 as Public Holiday.

“In making the declaration on behalf of the Government, the Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, urged Nigerians to use the period for sober reflections to ensure harmony, unity and peaceful co-existence, while giving full support to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in his sustained effort to pursue socio-economic and political growth of the nation.

“A statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Bassey Akpanyung said the Minister wishes Nigerians a peaceful celebration.”

The extension of the holiday came shortly after the Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, advised Nigerian Muslims not to discard the lessons learnt during Ramadan.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Peter Okhiria, the governor said, “While I congratulate the Muslim faithful for the successful completion of the Ramadan, I urge them to sustain the spirit of godliness, charity, perseverance and spiritual intercession for the nation which were some of the lessons learnt during the Holy Month.

“Having observed strictly the injunctions of Almighty Allah through fasting and prayers and by offering Zakat, the lessons learnt during the Holy month should not be lost, rather they should be part of the daily lives of the true Muslim in his dealings with fellow Muslims and people of other faith.

“The spiritual intercession offered by the faithful during Ramadan for peace, progress and stability in Edo State and the nation should be sustained, especially as the state goes into another phase of its political life.

“I appeal to the faithful to continue to live in peace and harmony with all; to continue to lead by example in supplications to Allah for continued progress and development of our dear state.

“I wish the faithful joyous celebrations and showers of Allah’s blessings. Barka da sallah.”