The Federal Government has declared Monday, December 12, 2016 as public holiday to mark the Eid-El Maulud celebration.

Eid-el Maulud is an Islamic celebration to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammed.

It is usually marked on the 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-awwal, while Shi’a Muslims mark it on the 17th of this month.

This was made known in a statement signed by Muhammadu Maccido, the acting permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior.

Maccido said that the holiday was declared by the Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, who also enjoined all Muslim faithful and Nigerians in general to cooperate and join hands with President Muhammadu Buhari, as he works tirelessly to build a strong, united and peaceful Nigeria.

“General Dambazau urged all Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for peace across the nation, while calling on all to be patient and supportive of the present administration for the successful implementation of its laudable programmes,” the statement added.