FG Declares Tuesday, August 25 Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Mawlid

Minister urges Nigerians to emulate Prophet Muhammad’s virtues of compassion and unity

The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, a public holiday to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

The announcement was made on Friday by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.

According to the minister, the holiday is to give Muslims in Nigeria and across the world the opportunity to celebrate the occasion and reflect on the life and teachings of the Prophet.

“Every Eid-ul-Mawlid gives us reason to pause and draw lessons from a life defined by compassion, humility and service to others,” Tunji-Ojo 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.”

The minister congratulated the Muslim community and called on all Nigerians to use the holiday to pray for peace, unity and national cohesion. He said the responsibility of keeping the country together rests on everyone.

Tunji-Ojo also urged citizens to celebrate peacefully and with restraint, and to show mutual respect to one another during the festivities.

He assured that the present administration remains committed to protecting lives and property, and to sustaining peace across the country.

Eid-ul-Mawlid, also called Maulud, is observed by Muslims worldwide to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad. It is usually marked with prayers, sermons, charity and gatherings in mosques and homes.

The declaration means government offices, schools and most public institutions will be closed on Tuesday. Banks and essential services are expected to operate skeletal services.

The Federal Government had earlier declared public holidays this year for Good Friday and Easter Monday in April.

Muslims across Nigeria are expected to join their counterparts globally in observing the day with acts of kindness and reflection.

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