By Peace Udugba
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 declaration was announced on Friday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
The Federal Government extended warm greetings to Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora as they prepare to observe the religious occasion.
Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to use the occasion not only for celebration but also as an opportunity to reflect on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, particularly the values of compassion, humility and service to humanity.
The minister said the lessons associated with the annual commemoration remained relevant to Nigeria, especially in promoting peaceful coexistence, tolerance and national unity.
“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 these values were needed in the country and encouraged all Nigerians, irrespective of religious affiliation, to reflect on them.
The Minister of Interior also called on Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity and national cohesion, stressing that maintaining a united and peaceful country is a collective responsibility.
He urged Muslims and other Nigerians participating in the celebration to do so with restraint, mutual respect and consideration for others, while avoiding actions capable of undermining peaceful coexistence.
Tunji-Ojo further reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across the country.
With the declaration, Tuesday, August 25, will be observed as a work-free public holiday for institutions covered by the federal holiday. Public servants are expected to resume work after the holiday.
Eid ul Mawlid, also known as Mawlid an-Nabi, is an annual Islamic observance commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad. In Nigeria, the occasion is commonly marked with prayers, religious gatherings, lectures and other activities centred on the Prophet’s life and teachings.
The Federal Government wished Muslim faithful across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous and meaningful Eid ul Mawlid celebration, while encouraging citizens to make the occasion an opportunity to strengthen peace, tolerance, unity and national cohesion.
