The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, as a public holiday to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
This disclosure is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
According to the statement, the federal government congratulated muslims across the country and in the diaspora on the occasion, urging them to emulate the Prophet’s virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion.
Ajani also encouraged Nigerians of all faiths to use the celebration to pray for peace, security, and stability in the country, while supporting government’s efforts to strengthen national unity and foster development.
Joyous, peaceful celebration
“The Minister of Interior wishes Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration.
“The celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid offers us yet another opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, promote peaceful coexistence, and imbibe the Prophet’s teachings of mutual respect and selfless service to humanity,” the statement added.
The government n the statement appealed to citizens to remain law-abiding and security conscious while supporting its policies aimed at promoting national unity and sustainable development.
Eid-ul-Mawlid, observed in the third month of the Islamic calendar (Rabi’ al-Awwal), commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad. It is marked with prayers, lectures, processions, and acts of charity.
In Nigeria, the day is recognised as a national public holiday, reflecting the country’s large Muslim population and long-standing tradition of observing major Islamic festivals.
What you should know
The Federal Government had earlier in the year officially declared Friday, June 6, and Monday, June 9, 2025, as public holidays across Nigeria to commemorate the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Adha.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government extended his congratulations to all Muslim faithful both within Nigeria and in the Diaspora as they prepare to mark one of Islam’s most sacred festivals.
The Minister encouraged Muslims to reflect on the values of sacrifice and devotion demonstrated by the Prophet Ibrahim.
He urged Nigerians to take advantage of the Eid-ul-Adha celebration to pray for peace and prosperity in the country.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo further emphasized the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to reforms that will reposition Nigeria for growth and development. He noted that the government’s people-centered initiatives are part of the broader Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at rebuilding the nation.
