Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, on Wednesday in a statement.
He felicitated with Christians and all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Aregbesola in the statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Shuaib Belgore on Wednesday in Abuja, enjoined Christians to practise the doctrines of Jesus Christ of faith, hope and love.
“We must emulate the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings on Humility, Service, Compassion, Patience, Peace and Righteousness, that His birth signifies.
“This will be the best way to portray Christ and celebrate his birth,” he admonished.
He urged Christians and Nigerians to make the best use of the festive period to pray for the total eradication of insecurity bedevilling the nation.
He also charged Nigerians not to be lulled into a false sense of security on the COVID-19 pandemic, warning that it is increasingly assuming a more lethal dimension with the emergence of Omicron.
“This calls for deliberate responsibility and discipline on the part of all”, the Minister added, calling on all to adhere strictly to and observe all the stipulated non-pharmaceutical protocols and guidelines such as wearing of facemasks, frequent washing of hands with soap and water, using of hand sanitiser and avoidance of large gatherings.
“Moderately celebrate the festival without large groupings and observe all the protocols stipulated by medical authorities.
“Take it as a point of personal responsibility to prevent the spread of the virus,” Aregbesola emphasised.
He, however, assured Nigerians that the Federal Government has put in place effective measures for the security of lives and property and expects Nigerians to support the efforts of security agencies by providing useful information that will assist them in the performance of their duties.