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FG Declares Thursday Public Holiday for Independence Day

The federal government of the federal republic of Nigeria has declared Thursday, 1 October, 2026 as public holiday to mark the country's 66th Independence anniversary.

This was announced on Wednesday, 30 September, 2026 by the minister of interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-ojo in a statement issued by the permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.

According to the notice, the minister congratulated all Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion, while also affirming that the warmth, welcoming spirit and love, and abundant wealth inherent in the human capital and the richness of the country, makes it unarguably the most prosperous black nation in the world.

He called on Nigerians to emulate the nation's forefathers in their love for the fatherland to build a Nigeria that the coming generations would be proud of.

Tunji-Ojo also established that peace and stability are the necessary conditions for the development of any nation.

“As we celebrate 66th years of our independence, we should always remember that there is hope for our country and our diversity is our strength, and our collective determination remains the foundation upon which a stronger and more prosperous nation will be built,” he stated.

He urged Nigerians to use the occasion to promote unity, peaceful co-existence and mutual respect, while also reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a better Nigeria through the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Tunji-Ojo also reiterated the federal government's commitment to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where citizens can live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.