The Nigerian government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, as a public holiday to mark the West Africa country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the holidays in a statement by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, on Wednesday.
“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 said.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary, urging all to demonstrate unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect during the holidays.
According to him, peace and stability were necessary conditions for national development, he called on Nigerians to emulate the nation’s founding fathers in their love for the country.
The minister assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remained committed to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where citizens could live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to use the celebration to reaffirm their commitment to national unity and peaceful coexistence.
