Workers Return to Offices After Eid Break — With Mixed Feelings and Eyes on Democracy Day

The city of Abuja came back to life today as workers across both the public and private sectors resumed their duties following the extended Eid al-Adha holiday. But as Kristina Reports observed at various offices and business hubs, the enthusiasm levels were mixed at best.
While the roads gradually regained their usual weekday bustle, many workers were visibly slow to shake off the holiday mood.

“I was tempted to call in sick this morning,” joked Grace Emmanuel, an administrative officer at a government agency in Garki. “This break was exactly what I needed. Getting out of bed today was so hard.”

The Eid holiday, which started from Friday June 6 to Monday, June 9, gave Muslims time to celebrate with their families, perform Eid prayers, and share meat from the symbolic ram slaughter. But it wasn’t only Muslims who had a good time; their Christian neighbours and colleagues were also in on the enjoyment.

“I’m not even going to lie, the ram meat this year was premium,” said Emmanuel Eze, a Christian banker who works in Wuse. “My Muslim friends looked out for me.
Indeed, the spirit of generosity and community was evident throughout the holiday period. Across neighbourhoods in Gwarinpa, Kubwa, and Maitama, residents exchanged greetings and meals, reinforcing Nigeria’s unique culture of religious tolerance and shared festivity.
For Fatima Sulaiman, a Muslim entrepreneur based in Jabi, Eid was both spiritual and social.

“We had family come in from Kaduna, and after prayers, it was all about cooking, laughter, and sharing,” she said. “I sent meat packs to my neighbours. That’s what Eid is about, giving.”
Yet, while most workers dragged their feet this morning, a smaller group returned to their desks with surprising eagerness.

“I missed work, believe it or not,” said Tunde Ajayi, a digital designer in Central Area. “I love the holidays, but I also enjoy my job. Plus, there’s a lot to catch up on.”
Adding to the mixed emotions of returning to work is the excitement about the upcoming Democracy Day holiday this Thursday, June 12.

“I’m already looking forward to the long weekend,” shared Aisha Bello, a school administrator in Wuse. “It makes today’s early morning a bit easier to swallow knowing we get another break soon.”
As the city slowly readjusts, many are already plotting their next short escape. But for now, it’s back to reality meetings, deadlines, and that ever-growing to-do list.