By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 25 August, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Eid-l-Mawlid, marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on Friday, 21 August, 2026.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora on the occasion, urging them to use the celebration to reflect on the values associated with the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
The minister emphasised the importance of compassion, humility and service to others, noting that these values remained relevant to the country’s current circumstances and should be embraced by all Nigerians, irrespective of religious affiliation.
He also urged citizens to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity and stability across the country, while calling for restraint and mutual respect during the celebration.
Tunji-Ojo stressed that national cohesion was a collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen the bonds of unity across religious and ethnic divides.
He wished the Muslim community a peaceful and joyous Eid ul Mawlid and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.
The public holiday will therefore provide Muslims across Nigeria an opportunity to commemorate the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad while reflecting on values that promote peaceful coexistence, compassion and service to humanity.
