The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, a public holiday across Nigeria to mark Eid ul Mawlid, the annual celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the holiday on Friday on behalf of the Federal Government through a statement issued by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
The declaration allows Muslims across the country to observe the religious occasion with their families and communities.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and those living abroad as they prepare to mark this year’s Eid ul Mawlid. He urged Nigerians to use the occasion to reflect on values associated with the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
The minister called on citizens to promote compassion, humility, service to others and peaceful coexistence, saying such values remain important to the country at this time.
He also encouraged Nigerians to pray for peace, unity and stronger national cooperation during the celebration.
According to the minister, maintaining peace and national unity should not be left to the government alone, as every citizen has a role to play in building a stable and united country.
He advised Muslims and other Nigerians celebrating the holiday to do so peacefully and with consideration for people of different backgrounds and beliefs.
Tunji-Ojo further assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remained committed to protecting lives and property while working to maintain peace across the country.
The public holiday will take effect on Tuesday, August 25, giving Muslim faithful the opportunity to participate in prayers and other activities associated with Eid ul Mawlid.
The government also wished the Muslim community a peaceful and successful celebration and called on Nigerians to use the period to promote tolerance, respect and peaceful relations among citizens.