The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Eid ul Mawlid, marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement issued on Friday by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
The minister urged Nigerians to use the occasion not only for celebration but also for reflection on the values associated with the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, particularly compassion, humility, tolerance and service to humanity.
Tunji-Ojo said Eid ul Mawlid provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on values that are essential to building a peaceful and united society.
“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 urged all Nigerians, regardless of religious affiliation, to embrace those virtues and apply them in their daily interactions.
“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 added.
The declaration of the public holiday will allow Muslim faithful across the country to observe the religious occasion and participate in prayers, gatherings and other activities associated with the celebration.
Eid ul Mawlid is observed by Muslims in commemoration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad. The occasion is marked in different ways across communities, with religious lectures, prayers, recitations, processions and charitable activities forming part of the celebrations in many places.
The Minister of Interior also used the occasion to call for prayers for peace, unity and national cohesion.
He urged Nigerians to recognise that maintaining peace and strengthening national unity are responsibilities shared by all citizens, irrespective of ethnic, religious or political differences.
According to the minister, the country needs greater understanding, mutual respect and a commitment to peaceful coexistence at a time when Nigerians continue to confront various social and economic challenges.
Tunji-Ojo called on citizens to celebrate the religious occasion responsibly and with consideration for others.
He urged Nigerians to demonstrate restraint and mutual respect throughout the holiday, while extending his best wishes to Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora.
The minister expressed hope that the celebration would provide an opportunity for citizens to renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence and the values that promote a stronger society.
The Federal Government’s declaration is also expected to provide workers and families with an opportunity to observe the holiday while participating in religious and community activities.
The Interior Ministry reiterated the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across the country.
Tunji-Ojo said the government would continue to work towards creating an environment where Nigerians can live, worship and conduct their legitimate activities peacefully and securely.
The minister’s message comes amid continued efforts by the government to promote national cohesion and encourage citizens to contribute to peace and stability.
The public holiday will be observed on Tuesday, August 25, giving Muslim faithful the opportunity to commemorate the occasion with their families and communities.
The Federal Government also encouraged Nigerians to use the celebration as a moment to strengthen bonds of friendship, tolerance and mutual understanding.
The statement announcing the holiday was electronically signed by Dr Magdalene Ajani on August 21, 2026.
With the declaration, government offices and other institutions expected to observe public holidays will close on Tuesday, while essential services are expected to continue as required.
The government’s message for this year’s Eid ul Mawlid centres on the importance of translating religious values into practical conduct, particularly through compassion, humility, service and respect for others.
The minister therefore encouraged citizens to look beyond the ceremonial aspects of the celebration and draw lessons that can contribute to peaceful relationships within families, communities and the wider society.
As Muslims across Nigeria prepare to mark Eid ul Mawlid, the Federal Government has called for a celebration characterised by peace, moderation and unity.
The government expressed its goodwill to Muslim faithful and wished them a joyous and peaceful celebration, while urging all Nigerians to use the occasion to promote harmony and strengthen the bonds that unite the country.
