The Federal Government has declared Monday, October 10 as a public holiday to commemorate Eid-el-Maulud, the birth of the Islamic Prophet, Muhammad

Dr Shuaib Belgore, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, made the announcement on Thursday in Abuja.

According to him the declaration by the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, on behalf of the Federal Government who congratulated all Muslims, both at home and in the diaspora, for witnessing the celebration.

The minister urged all Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of love, patience, tolerance, and perseverance, which are profound spiritual virtues exemplified by Prophet Muhammad.

He claimed that doing so would ensure the country’s peace, security, and harmony.

Aregbesola urged Nigerians, particularly Muslims, to avoid violence, lawlessness, and other criminal acts, adding that “as the undisputed leader of our race, we must demonstrate responsible leadership in Africa.”

The minister demanded an end to all divisive tendencies in the country as Muslims celebrate the birth of prophet Muhammad.

He also urged all Nigerians, and the youth in particular, to embrace the virtues of hard work and peaceful disposition to fellow humans, irrespective of faith, ideology, social class and ethnicity.

Aregbesola enjoined Nigerians to join hands with the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration in its efforts to build a progressive and enviable nation that all citizens would be proud of.

He also urged Nigerians to be security conscious, asking them to report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agency and through the N-Alert application on android and IOS.

“When you see something, do N-Alert, as this would illicit prompt response from security agents.“

Aregbesola wished all Muslims a happy celebration and Nigerians a happy holiday.