Branches of commercial banks and other financial institutions across Nigeria, including Access Bank, UBA, Zenith Bank, and GTB, will be closed on Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20. The closures follow the federal government’s declaration of public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, which signify the end of Ramadan.
The announcement was made on X by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement issued by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani. The statement conveyed the minister’s congratulatory message to Muslim faithful on completing the fasting period.
The minister encouraged Muslims to continue practising the virtues highlighted during Ramadan, including love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice. He also called on Nigerians to use the Eid period to pray for the country’s peace, unity, and sustained development.
“The Minister urges Muslims to sustain the virtues of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice, which were emphasised during the holy month. He also called on all Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for the continued peace, unity, and prosperity of the nation,” the statement said.
Tunji-Ojo further advised citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend kindness to vulnerable members of society during the festivities. The government reiterated its commitment to promoting national unity and peaceful coexistence across the country.
Bank customers have been advised to use ATMs, mobile applications, internet banking, and USSD platforms to carry out transactions during the two-day holiday.
