This is contained in a statement signed by Mrs Anastasia Nwaobia, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior.

The statement said the Minister of Interior, Mr Abba Moro, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, urged Nigerians to emulate the exemplary attributes of Islam which are `"love, tolerance and peaceful co-existence amongst the people".

Moro further advised Nigerians, irrespective of their religious beliefs, to use the occasion for sober reflection and pray for the peace, unity and progress of the nation "in its march to nationhood".

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Eid-el-Fitri or Sallah celebration will marks the end of the 30 days fasting embarked upon by Muslim faithful on July 20.

The Ramadan fast is expected to end on Friday 17th or Saturday 18th August.