As a 9-5 worker in Nigeria, taking your annual leave at the right time can make all the difference in how much rest and relaxation you get. By strategically planning your leave around public holidays, you can maximize your time off while using fewer leave days.
Here’s how you can plan your leave for longer breaks and make the most of your time off.
What Is Annual Leave?
Annual leave is the paid time off that employees are entitled to each year. In Nigeria, most companies offer a minimum of two weeks (10 working days) of paid leave, though some organizations provide longer periods based on contract terms.
The goal of annual leave is to allow employees to rest, recharge, and spend time with family. However, the key to making the most of it is knowing when to take it.
Best Time to Take Your Annual Leave in Nigeria
By planning your leave around public holidays and weekends, you can extend your break without using too many leave days. Here are the best times to schedule your leave:
1️⃣ March 28th – April 7th (Easter Break) 🐣
🗓 Public holidays included: Good Friday (March 29th), Easter Monday (April 1st)
📆 Leave days used: 5
⏳ Total days off: 11
By taking leave from March 28th to April 7th, you get an 11-day break while using only 5 leave days. This period aligns with Easter celebrations, making it a great time to travel, visit family, or simply rest.
2️⃣ April 18th – April 28th (Eid al-Fitr) 🕌
🗓 Public holidays included: Eid al-Fitr (April 20th & 21st) (dates may vary based on moon sighting)
📆 Leave days used: 5
⏳ Total days off: 11
With the Eid holiday falling within this period, you’ll enjoy 11 days off while using just 5 leave days. It’s a perfect time for relaxation or a short getaway.
3️⃣ June 6th – June 17th (Democracy Day & Eid al-Adha) 🇳🇬
🗓 Public holidays included: Democracy Day (June 12th), Eid al-Adha (June 16th & 17th) (tentative dates based on moon sighting)
📆 Leave days used: 5
⏳ Total days off: 12
June is another ideal time to take leave, as you get 12 days off while using just 5 leave days. With multiple public holidays, this is a great opportunity to take an extended break without exhausting your leave balance.
4️⃣ September 4th – September 14th (Mid-Year Recharge) 🌤
🗓 Public holidays included: None, but strategically planned around weekends
📆 Leave days used: 5
⏳ Total days off: 11
For a mid-year recharge, the September 4th – September 14th window is a solid option. Even though there are no public holidays, the way weekends fall allows you to get 11 days off for just 5 leave days.
What to Do With Your Annual Leave?
Travel and Explore ✈️
Take a trip within Nigeria or internationally. Travel is a great way to refresh your mind and experience new cultures.
Spend Quality Time with Family and Friends 👨👩👧
Use your leave to reconnect with loved ones. Plan outings, visit relatives, or simply enjoy time at home with family.
Invest in Personal Development 📚
Enroll in a short course, learn a new skill, or work on a personal project. This could be a great time to focus on self-improvement.
Rest and Recharge 😌
Sometimes, the best way to use your leave is to simply rest. Sleep more, reduce stress, and take care of your mental and physical health.
Start a Side Hustle or Business 💼
If you’ve been thinking of starting a business or side hustle, your annual leave is a good time to research, plan, and take action.
Your annual leave is a precious opportunity to step away from work, recharge, and make the most of your time off. By planning strategically, you can maximize your break without using too many leave days.
When do you usually take your leave? Do you prefer to travel, relax, or start something new? Let’s discuss in the comments!