Nigeria @ 66: FG declares Thursday Public Holiday

The Federal Government has declared Thursday a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration in a statement on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, in Abuja.

Tunji-Ojo, who made the announcement on behalf of the federal government, said that Nigeria undeniably remains the most prosperous black nation in the world.

He reiterated that peace and stability were necessary conditions for the development of any nation.

He called on Nigerians to emulate the nation’s founding fathers by loving Nigeria, thereby building a nation to be proud of.

“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.”

“Our collective determination remains the foundation upon which a stronger and more prosperous nation will be built,” Tunji-Ojo said.

The minister reassured Nigerians that the administration of President Bola Tinubu through the Renewed Hope Agenda will ensure a better Nigeria for all citizens, as a befitting tribute to our heroes past.

Tunji-Ojo urged citizens to use the celebration as an opportunity to demonstrate the values of unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

The minister assured Nigerians that the federal government remains committed to strengthening national security.

He added that this would be achieved by improving public safety and creating an environment where citizens can live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.

Tunji-Ojo congratulated all Nigerians, at home and abroad, on this year’s Independence Day celebration.

The federal government said that the activities for the celebration will be “low-key”.

The ​‌‍‍‍⁠‌‍⁠⁠‌⁠⁠‌​‍‌‍⁠‌​federal government said the celebration will be on reflecting on the contributions, enduring legacies and sacrifices of the founding fathers and heroines, who worked for Nigeria’s independence from colonial rule.

The government said that the achievements recorded by Nigeria since independence were built on the foundation laid by the country’s nationalists, stressing the importance of remembering their sacrifices while reflecting on the nation’s journey since Oct. 1, 1960.