The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

In a statement, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, said the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the celebration.

The Minister urges Nigerians to uphold unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence, and mutual respect, stressing that peace and stability are essential for national development.

The statement describes Nigeria’s diversity as a strength and calls on citizens to emulate the patriotism of the nation’s founding fathers in building a country future generations can be proud of.

The Minister also reaffirms the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where Nigerians can live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.