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

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 on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani.

Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad and urged citizens to use the anniversary to promote unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. He also called on Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices of the nation’s founding fathers and work collectively towards building a stronger country.

The minister further assured citizens of the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national security and improving public safety. He said Nigeria’s diversity remains a strength and expressed optimism that collective determination can help build a more prosperous nation.

Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, and will mark 66 years of independence on Thursday. The Federal Government has announced that this year’s celebration will be relatively low-key, with a nationwide broadcast by President Bola Tinubu scheduled for Independence Day.