FG declares Tuesday public holiday for Eid ul Mawlid, gives Nigerians a midweek break

• The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, a public holiday for Eid ul Mawlid.

• Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced the holiday on behalf of the government.

• The minister urged Nigerians to reflect on compassion, humility and service to others.

• Nigerians have been encouraged to celebrate peacefully and pray for national unity.

Nigerians looking forward to a break from the usual hustle can now mark their calendars, as the Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, a public holiday to celebrate Eid ul Mawlid.

The holiday is to commemorate the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad and will give Muslim faithful across Nigeria the opportunity to observe the occasion.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the public holiday on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement released on Friday by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani.

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The announcement means workers across the country will enjoy a day off from work, giving many Nigerians a chance to rest, spend time with family and participate in Eid ul Mawlid activities.

While congratulating Muslims in Nigeria and around the world, Tunji-Ojo encouraged Nigerians to reflect on the values associated with the life of Prophet Muhammad, including 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.

“These are qualities our nation needs now more than ever, and I encourage every Nigerian, not just our Muslim brothers and sisters, to reflect on them,” he said.

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The minister also urged Nigerians to use the celebration as an opportunity to pray for peace and unity in the country, noting that national cohesion remains a shared responsibility.

He advised citizens to celebrate responsibly and with respect for one another while wishing the Muslim community a peaceful and joyful Eid celebration.

Tunji-Ojo further assured Nigerians that the government remains committed to protecting lives and property and sustaining peace across the country.

Eid ul Mawlid is observed by Muslims in many parts of the world to honour the birth of Prophet Muhammad. In Nigeria, the occasion is usually marked with prayers, gatherings and religious activities.