FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day.

FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani.

The public holiday will give Nigerians across the country an opportunity to mark the anniversary and reflect on Nigeria’s journey since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960.

FG Congratulates Nigerians on Independence Day

Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion, urging citizens to use the celebration to promote national unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

The minister emphasized that peace and stability remain important to national development and called on Nigerians to uphold the values and commitment to the country demonstrated by its founding fathers.

He also urged citizens to remain hopeful about Nigeria’s future, stressing the importance of the country’s diversity and collective determination in building a stronger and more prosperous nation.

October 1 Marks 66 Years of Nigerian Independence

Nigeria became an independent nation on October 1, 1960, after gaining independence from British colonial rule.

Since then, October 1 has been observed annually as Nigeria’s Independence Day, with the occasion marked through official activities, public celebrations and messages from government officials and citizens.

The 2026 celebration will therefore mark 66 years of Nigerian independence.

Minister Calls for Peace and National Unity

The Minister of Interior urged Nigerians to use the anniversary as an opportunity to strengthen national unity and promote peaceful coexistence across the country.

He said citizens have a role to play in creating a peaceful society by respecting one another and contributing positively to national development.

According to the minister, Nigeria’s diversity should be regarded as a strength, while the collective determination of its citizens remains important to the country’s progress.

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Security and Public Safety

Tunji-Ojo assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening national security and public safety.

He said the government would continue working towards creating an environment where citizens can live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.

The minister also stated that the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda would continue to pursue policies aimed at building a better Nigeria for all citizens.

FG Urges Nigerians to Celebrate Responsibly

As Nigerians prepare for the Independence Day holiday, the minister urged citizens to use the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to national unity, peaceful coexistence and the development of Nigeria.

The government’s message also encouraged Nigerians to reflect on the country’s progress, challenges and shared aspirations as the nation marks another year of independence.

When Is Nigeria’s 2026 Independence Day?

Nigeria’s 2026 Independence Day will be observed on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

The date is a public holiday across Nigeria and marks the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

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FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day

FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day

FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day

FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day