As Nigeria celebrated Christmas on Thursday, December 25, 2025, a public holiday nationwide, several state governors extended festive cheer to their workforce with significant financial gestures. In a move aimed at providing economic relief and boosting morale, these leaders approved the payment of 13th-month salaries, special bonuses, and other gifts for civil servants, ensuring a more joyous celebration with families and loved ones.
State-by-State Breakdown of Festive Rewards
The spirit of giving was evident across multiple states, from the South-South to the North-East and South-West regions. Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State led the way by approving a 13th-month salary, which he termed the "Eno-mber" salary. He directed the state's Accountant General to ensure the payment was made before Christmas to ease the financial burden of festive celebrations for workers.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the approval of a 13th-month salary bonus for the year 2025. He made the announcement during the inauguration of the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital Governing Board in Ibadan. Governor Makinde also used the occasion to pledge the clearance of minimum wage arrears within December and to address the ongoing strike by lecturers in the state.
Bonuses and Cash Gifts Across the Nation
Moving northwards, Governor Adamu Fintiri of Adamawa State approved a one-month basic salary bonus for all state civil servants. He described this as a Christmas gift intended to ease economic pressure and enhance festive joy, reflecting his administration's commitment to supporting workers, women, and youth enterprises.
In Ebonyi State, Governor Francis Nwifuru brought jubilation to the civil service with the announcement of a ₦150,000 Christmas bonus for every civil servant. This generous gesture comes on the heels of the governor's earlier move to increase the state's minimum wage by ₦20,000.
While not a blanket 13th-month payment, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State rewarded 177 outstanding public servants in a grand style. The recognition, which took place at the 2025 Mr. Governor's Luncheon, included the award of five brand new cars and a total cash sum of N165.5 million. The governor's Media and Publicity aide, Gboyega Akosile, provided further details on the outstanding public servants who were honoured.
Leadership Messages for Peace and Unity
The financial rewards were complemented by messages of peace and unity from the nation's leaders. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his Christmas message, urged Nigerians to embrace peace and religious tolerance, firmly stating that no citizen should suffer due to their faith. He reaffirmed his commitment to protecting constitutional rights, a statement that addressed international concerns over religious freedom in the country.
Echoing the President's sentiments, state governors across Nigeria disseminated messages calling for love, unity, and peaceful coexistence during the Christmas period. These gestures and messages collectively underscored a national effort to foster goodwill and provide tangible support during a significant holiday, highlighting the important role of civil servants in state administration and development.
