The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary and allow citizens to celebrate the occasion.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the holiday on Wednesday on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement issued by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani.
The minister congratulated Nigerians in the country and abroad on the anniversary and urged citizens to use the celebration to promote national unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and respect for one another.
Tunji-Ojo said peace and stability remained important to Nigeria’s development, urging citizens to draw lessons from the sacrifices and commitment of the country’s founding leaders.
He said Nigeria’s diversity should be viewed as a source of strength and called for collective efforts towards building a stronger and more prosperous country.
The minister also assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue working to improve national security and public safety while creating conditions that would allow citizens to live, work and pursue their lawful activities without fear.
He added that the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda would continue to focus on improving the country and the welfare of its citizens.
Tunji-Ojo further urged Nigerians to use the Independence celebration as an opportunity to renew their commitment to national unity, peaceful coexistence and the progress of the country.
The October 1 holiday will enable Nigerians across the country to mark the 66th anniversary of the nation’s independence from British colonial rule in 1960.