FG Declares August 25 Public Holiday for Eid ul Mawlid

Nigeria's Federal Government has designated Tuesday, August 25, 2026, as a public holiday in observance of Eid ul Mawlid, the Islamic celebration commemorating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. The Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on Friday through the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.

The declaration means that workers and the general public across Nigeria will have the day off to participate in the religious observance. In his message, Tunji-Ojo extended greetings to Muslim citizens within Nigeria and members of the Nigerian diaspora worldwide, marking the occasion as a moment for collective reflection.

The minister called on all Nigerians to contemplate the principles associated with Prophet Muhammad's life, specifically highlighting compassion, humility, and community service. These virtues, he suggested, hold relevance for the nation beyond religious significance, connecting the religious holiday to broader social values.

Eid ul Mawlid is an annual observance in the Islamic calendar, and the Federal Government's declaration ensures that Muslim-majority states and federal institutions recognise the day formally. The holiday announcement follows the standard practice of the government setting aside public holidays for major religious festivals celebrated across Nigeria's diverse population.