Govt Declares Thursday Public Holiday for Independence Day

The Federal Government has declared tomorrow,  Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
This was contained in a statement by the Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the government. The statement  was signed by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
The minister congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, noting that the warmth, welcoming spirit and love of the people, along with the country’s rich human capital and land, make Nigeria the most prosperous black nation in the world.
He called the country a beacon of hope for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and said peace and stability are needed for any nation to develop.
Tunji-Ojo then urged Nigerians to follow the example of the founding fathers in their love for the country and to build a Nigeria their children will be proud of, adding that there was hope for the country, that diversity is its strength, and that collective determination is the base for a stronger and more prosperous nation.
He promised that the administration would work for a better Nigeria for all citizens as a fitting tribute to the heroes of the past and urged Nigerians  to use the celebration to show unity, patriotism, peaceful living and mutual respect.
The Federal Government further said that a new Nigeria was achievable and that it remained committed to improving national security and public safety, as well as creating a place where citizens can live, work and pursue their goals with confidence.