Nigeria @66: FG Declares Thursday Public Holiday for Independence Anniversary

By Al-Amin Ciroma 

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 signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani.

The National Lens reports that the minister congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, urging citizens to use the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the country’s journey while strengthening the values of unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

Tunji-Ojo said peace and stability remained essential to national development and called on Nigerians to draw inspiration from the sacrifices and patriotism of the nation’s founding fathers.

He also expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential, pointing to the country’s human resources and natural endowments as important foundations for national 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.

He assured citizens that the Federal Government remained committed to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where Nigerians could live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.

The minister further urged Nigerians to make the Independence celebration a moment of renewed commitment to national unity and peaceful coexistence.

Nigeria attained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960. The 2026 celebration therefore marks 66 years of independence and also comes against the backdrop of 27 years of uninterrupted constitutional democracy since the return to civilian rule in 1999.

The Federal Government had earlier indicated that this year’s Independence activities would be low-key, with emphasis on reflecting on the nation’s journey and the contributions of its founding fathers.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast on Thursday as part of activities marking the anniversary.