Independence Day: FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday

The Federal Government has approved Thursday, October 1, 2026, as a public holiday in celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government. A statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, conveyed the declaration.

The minister extended his greetings to Nigerians both within the country and in the diaspora, encouraging citizens to use the anniversary as an opportunity to promote national unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and respect for one another.

Tunji-Ojo also urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the country’s founding generation by putting the interests of the nation first and contributing to the development of a country that future generations can be proud to inherit.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s 66 years as an independent nation, the minister said the country’s diversity remains an important source of strength and expressed optimism about its future.

“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,” he said.

He further reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving national security and public safety while creating conditions that enable Nigerians to live, work and pursue their legitimate ambitions with greater confidence.

This year’s Independence Anniversary will be observed under the theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity.” The government said the theme highlights its efforts to sustain ongoing reforms and ensure that their benefits translate into more opportunities and better living conditions for citizens.

Meanwhile, security measures have been stepped up ahead of the celebrations. The Federal Capital Territory Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) disclosed that 3,000 personnel have been deployed to strategic locations across the Federal Capital Territory to support security operations during the October 1 celebrations.