Government Announces 20-Day Public Holiday

The Cross River State Government has instructed all civil and public servants to embark on a 20-day break to allow full participation in the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the directive was issued through a circular with reference number GO/HOS/4/Vol.III/277, signed by the State Head of Service, Mr. Orok Okon.

The circular mandates that all civil servants, except those performing essential duties, will proceed on leave from December 15, 2025, to January 5, 2026.

“The approval is to enable Civil/Public Servants to fully participate in the Christmas festivities within the State.

“However, officers on essential duties are excluded from this leave and are expected to remain at their duty posts to ensure uninterrupted delivery of vital public services.

“Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments are requested to inform all staff of the contents of this circular and ensure full compliance,” it added.

NAN also reports that the Calabar Carnival—Africa’s largest street party—is among the major activities lined up for the festive season in the state. This year’s edition marks the 20th anniversary of the annual event introduced during the Donald Duke administration in 2005.