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 (Peace Be Upon Him).
The announcement was contained in a statement electronically signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on Friday.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government while extending warm felicitations to Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora.
Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to use the occasion to reflect on the values associated with the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, particularly 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,” the minister said.
He added that the values remained particularly important to Nigeria at a time when the country needed greater understanding and unity.
“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 called on Nigerians to use the celebration as an opportunity to offer collective prayers for peace, unity and cohesion across the country.
According to him, national unity is a shared responsibility that requires the contributions of all citizens, regardless of religious or other differences.
Tunji-Ojo further urged Nigerians celebrating the occasion to do so with restraint and mutual respect, while wishing the Muslim community a peaceful and joyous Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to safeguarding lives and property and maintaining peace across the country.
The declaration means workers across the country will have Tuesday off as part of activities marking the annual Islamic celebration.
Eid-ul-Mawlid is observed by Muslims to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad and is marked through prayers, religious gatherings, sermons and other activities centred on his life and teachings.
