FG Confirms December 25, 26 and January 1 as Nationwide Public Holidays
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared December 25, December 26, 2025, and January 1, 2026 as public holidays for citizens and residents nationwide.
The announcement confirms that Christmas Day and Boxing Day in December, as well as New Year’s Day in January, will be observed as statutory public holidays across all states, government agencies, and corporate institutions.
What the Holiday Declaration Means
Under the declaration, employees in both the public and private sectors are entitled to time off on the specified dates. Businesses, schools, and government offices are expected to close in observance of the holidays unless special arrangements are required for essential services.
The holiday declaration also signals a period of increased movement and activity in the housing and property market. With many Nigerians travelling to their hometowns or abroad for the festive season, real estate services such as site visits, property inspections, and closing transactions may experience rescheduling or temporary slowdowns.
Festive Season and the Housing Market
The final week of December through early January typically sees heightened activity in residential property markets, especially in urban centres and holiday destinations. Homeowners often use the break to complete renovations or move into new homes, while some landlords and property managers schedule showings or lease start dates around the holiday period.
Real estate professionals advise stakeholders to plan ahead, noting that many agencies will adjust operating hours or temporarily pause fieldwork during the holiday stretch.
Travel, Family and Real Estate Transactions
As families gather and individuals take annual leave to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year, property developers and housing service providers are anticipating a mix of subdued office activity and sustained consumer interest.
Housing finance institutions and legal offices handling title transfers are expected to see a deceleration in workflow during the holiday period, with normal operations resuming in early January. Buyers and renters are therefore encouraged to confirm appointment schedules in advance to avoid delays.
Sector Outlook Amid the Festive Break
Despite the holiday pause, analysts believe that consumer demand for housing will remain robust as Nigerians return to market activity with renewed momentum in the new year. The festive period, while quieter for formal transactions, often sparks informal discussions and planning around future housing decisions.
Real estate firms are also likely to use the holiday season for marketing campaigns and year-end promotions, positioning new listings and developments for strong market engagement in 2026.