Eid ul Mawlid: FG declares Tuesday public holiday

The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 25 August 2026, a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Eid ul Mawlid, marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government, in a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Magdalene Ajani, on Friday.

The government extended warm felicitations to Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora ahead of the celebration.

FG urges reflection, unity

Mr Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to use the occasion to reflect on the values associated with the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, particularly compassion, humility and service to others.

“Every Eid ul Mawlid gives us reason to pause and draw lessons from a life defined by compassion, humility and service to others,” the minister said.

He added that these values were important for Nigeria at a time when the country needed greater unity and understanding.

Nigerians urged to pray for peace

The minister also encouraged Nigerians to use the period for collective prayers for peace and national cohesion, stressing that maintaining unity was a shared responsibility.

He urged citizens to celebrate with restraint and mutual respect while wishing the Muslim community a peaceful and joyous Eid.

FG reiterates security commitment

The Federal Government further reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the country and maintaining peace during the celebration.

The declaration means affected government offices and institutions will observe the public holiday on Tuesday, with normal official activities expected to resume afterward.

For Nigerians, the declaration provides a nationwide work-free day for the Eid ul Mawlid celebration and gives Muslim faithful an opportunity to observe the occasion while also allowing citizens to reflect on messages of peace, compassion and service.

The holiday comes as the government continues to encourage national unity and peaceful coexistence among citizens of different religious and ethnic backgrounds.