FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DECLARES OCTOBER 1 PUBLIC HOLIDAY FOR NIGERIA’S 66TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY
The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
The public holiday will allow Nigerians at home and abroad to commemorate the anniversary of the country’s independence and reflect on the nation’s journey since October 1, 1960.
FG CONGRATULATES NIGERIANS ON 66TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY
In his message, the Minister of Interior congratulated Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on the occasion of the 66th Independence Anniversary.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged citizens to use the celebration as an opportunity to demonstrate unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
He also called on Nigerians to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of the nation’s founding fathers and demonstrate commitment to the continued development of the country.
MINISTER EMPHASISES UNITY AND PEACE
The Minister noted that peace and stability are important conditions for national development and encouraged Nigerians to work together towards a stronger country.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s diversity as a strength and encouraged citizens to maintain hope and collective determination in contributing to the nation’s development.
“As we celebrate 66 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,” the Minister said.
FG REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO NATIONAL SECURITY
Dr. Tunji-Ojo further assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening national security and public safety.
According to the Minister, the government will continue efforts towards creating an environment where citizens can live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
He also stated that the administration's Renewed Hope Agenda would continue to pursue its stated objective of building a better Nigeria for all citizens.
NIGERIA TO MARK 66 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE
Nigeria attained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960. The 2026 celebration therefore marks 66 years of independence.
The anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to commemorate the country's independence and reflect on the nation's history, diversity and continued development.
OCTOBER 1, 2026 DECLARED PUBLIC HOLIDAY
With the Federal Government's declaration, Thursday, October 1, 2026, will be observed as a public holiday across Nigeria in commemoration of the 66th Independence Anniversary.
Citizens are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and use the occasion to promote peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and national unity.
KEY DETAILS
Occasion: Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary
Date: Thursday, October 1, 2026
Status: Public Holiday
Declared By: Federal Government of Nigeria
Minister of Interior: Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
Permanent Secretary: Dr. Magdalene Ajani
Ministry: Federal Ministry of Interior
The Federal Government has wished Nigerians a peaceful and meaningful 66th Independence Anniversary celebration.