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The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, as a public holiday to mark this year’s Eid ul Mawlid, the Islamic celebration commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
The declaration was announced in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on Friday, August 21.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government and extended warm felicitations to Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora.
What the minister said
Tunji-Ojo said Eid ul Mawlid provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on values associated with the life of Prophet Muhammad, particularly compassion, humility and service to others.
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- “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 encouraged all Nigerians, regardless of religious affiliation, to reflect on these values, noting that they remain important to the country at a time when greater unity and peaceful coexistence are needed.
- “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.
The minister also urged Nigerians to use the celebration as an opportunity for collective prayers for peace and cohesion across the country, stressing that national unity is a shared responsibility.
Tunji-Ojo called on citizens to celebrate with restraint and mutual respect while wishing Muslim faithful a joyous and peaceful Eid ul Mawlid.
More details
The Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across the country during the celebration.
The Minister urged Nigerians to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence as they mark the occasion, while reflecting on the values of compassion, humility and service associated with the life of Prophet Muhammad.
He further encouraged citizens to make collective prayers for the peace, stability and unity of Nigeria.
What you should know
Eid ul Mawlid is an annual Islamic observance commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad. The occasion is marked by Muslims in different parts of the world through prayers, religious gatherings, sermons and reflections on the Prophet’s teachings and life.
In Nigeria, the Federal Government routinely declares public holidays for major Islamic and Christian religious observances, including Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha, Christmas and Easter.
The August 25 public holiday will provide Muslim faithful across the country with a work-free day to observe this year’s Eid ul Mawlid celebration.
