The federal government has declared July 20 and July 21, as public holidays in celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, made the announcement on behalf of the federal government, informing the general public on the declaration while congratulating Muslims in advance of the celebration.

“I call on Muslims to continue to imbibe the spirit of love, peace, kindness and sacrifice, as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) and to also use the period to pray for peace, unity, prosperity and the stability of the country, considering the challenges of insecurity we face at the moment” he said urging every citizen to pray for the country’s stability.

The minister used the medium to implore Nigerians to report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies and most importantly observe due COVID-19 protocols during the festival.

“We must all take responsibility for containment of the pandemic during this year’s festival” he added.

Acknowledging the recent victims of kidnap and other unfortunate events, Mr Aregbesola sympathised with the victims’ family saying “our hearts and prayers of comfort are with you.”