The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate the 2026 Eid ul Mawlid, marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made 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 congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora on the occasion, urging them to use the celebration as an opportunity to reflect on the teachings and values associated with the life of Prophet Muhammad.
Tunji-Ojo said the occasion offered an opportunity for Nigerians to draw lessons from the Prophet’s life, particularly his emphasis on compassion, humility and service to humanity.
“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.
The minister urged Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity and national cohesion, stressing that building and sustaining a peaceful nation was a collective responsibility.
He called on citizens to celebrate the Eid with restraint, mutual respect and consideration for one another, while wishing the Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous celebration.
Tunji-Ojo also reaffirmed the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu administration to protecting lives and property and promoting peace and stability across the country.
He urged Nigerians to continue to support efforts aimed at strengthening national unity and fostering peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and backgrounds.