By Precious Mark
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, as a public holiday to mark this year’s Eid ul Mawlid celebration in commemoration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.
Announcing the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government on Friday, the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, extended warm greetings to the Muslim community across Nigeria and the diaspora.
Eid ul Mawlid, celebrated annually on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, marks the birth of Prophet Muhammad. It is a sacred occasion for Muslims worldwide dedicated to spiritual reflection, communal prayers, charity, and honoring the Prophet’s legacy of peace, compassion, and moral leadership.
Hon. Tunji-Ojo noted that the occasion presents a reflective opportunity for citizens to embrace the core virtues modeled by the Holy Prophet.
“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. “
“These are qualities our nation needs now more than ever, and I encourage every Nigerian, not just our Muslim brothers and sisters, to reflect on them.”
Emphasizing the importance of national cohesion, the Minister urged Nigerians to utilize the holiday for collective prayers aimed at enhancing peace, stability, and unity across the country.
He advised citizens to mark the celebration with restraint and mutual respect, while reassuring the public of the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property nationwide.
The official statement declaring the public holiday was signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.