As Christians in Nigeria and across the globe gather on December 25 to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, it is a day marked by public holidays, family reunions, and festive joy. However, this widespread observance is not universal on the African continent. A recent report highlights a distinct group of nations where Christmas holds no official status.
African Nations Without Christmas Public Holidays
According to an analysis referenced from Business Insider Africa, at least six African countries do not recognize Christmas Day as a public holiday. For various cultural, religious, and political reasons, December 25 remains a normal working day in these nations. The list includes Algeria, Libya, Somalia, Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, and Morocco.
The celebration's absence or low-key nature is often linked to the demographic and religious makeup of these countries, where Islam is the predominant faith. In some cases, small Christian communities exist but mark the occasion privately without national fanfare.
Country-by-Country Breakdown
Algeria treats December 25 as a regular day. While some shops may cater to expatriates and tourists with decorations, the nation, with an estimated Christian population of 0-1%, does not have public celebrations.
In Libya, the situation is similar for its small Christian community, estimated at 2.7%. Any Christmas observances are conducted privately, as public celebrations are considered rare and potentially unsafe in certain areas.
Somalia presents the most restrictive case. The government, adhering to a strict interpretation of Islamic law, has banned Christmas celebrations entirely. The country reports a 0% estimated Christian population and views non-Muslim religious traditions as incompatible with state policy.
Mauritania also has a 0% estimated Christian population, and the day passes without national significance or acknowledgment.
Interestingly, Guinea-Bissau in West Africa has an estimated Christian population of 10%. Despite this, Christmas is not a public holiday. Celebrations are quiet, confined to Christian families who may observe with traditional meals like bacalao and modest gift exchanges.
In Morocco, major cities and tourist centers see some festive decorations, special meals, and church services catering to the Christian minority (estimated at 1%) and visitors. However, it remains a working day without official holiday status.
Contrast with Nigerian Celebrations and Church Debates
This continental perspective stands in stark contrast to nations like Nigeria, where the federal government has officially declared December 25 a public holiday for 2025, alongside Boxing Day and New Year's Day, sparking jubilation among the populace.
The report also touches on an internal debate within Christianity itself, noting that some churches, like the Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries (MFM), do not celebrate Christmas. The church has stated its position that the celebration's foundation is idolatrous and unbiblical, though it clarifies it does not condemn those who observe it. This view has been contested by figures like Catholic Priest Reverend Father Chinenye Oluoma, who defends Christmas as a celebration of the mystery of Jesus's birth.
The analysis, compiled by journalist Adekunle Dada, who has over eight years of experience covering metro, government policy, and international issues, provides a nuanced look at the diversity of cultural and religious practices across Africa during the festive season.
