Independence Day: FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the declaration in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary and urged citizens to uphold unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
The minister described Nigeria’s diversity, human resources and natural wealth as important strengths, saying the country remained “unarguably the most prosperous black nation in the world.”
He also stressed the importance of peace and stability to national development, while describing Nigeria as a beacon of hope for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, the anniversary should remind Nigerians of the sacrifices made by the country’s founding fathers and inspire citizens to contribute to building a nation future generations can be proud of.
“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 said the Federal Government would continue to implement measures under the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.
He added that the administration remained committed to building a better Nigeria as a fitting tribute to the nation’s heroes past.
The minister also called on citizens to use the Independence anniversary to reflect the values of unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
He said “a new Nigeria is achievable,” while reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where citizens can live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, and the date has since been observed as the country’s Independence Day.
Leave a comment