The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the public holiday in a statement issued on Wednesday by the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani. In the statement, Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the 66th Independence anniversary. He urged citizens to use the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to national unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence, and mutual respect.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized that peace and stability remained essential to national development. He urged Nigerians to emulate the country's founding fathers by demonstrating commitment to the nation's progress. According to him, the country's diversity is its strength, and collective determination remains the foundation upon which a stronger and more prosperous nation will be built.
The Minister assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remained committed to strengthening national security, enhancing public safety, and creating an environment where citizens could live, work, and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence. He added that the administration's Renewed Hope Agenda would continue to pursue measures aimed at building a better Nigeria for all citizens.
Tunji-Ojo appealed to Nigerians to use the Independence Day celebration as an opportunity to strengthen national cohesion and promote peaceful coexistence across the country. He encouraged citizens to reflect on the country's journey so far and look forward to a brighter future.
The public holiday declaration is a yearly tradition in Nigeria, where October 1 is celebrated as a public holiday to mark the country's independence from British colonial rule in 1960. This year's celebration marks the 66th anniversary of Nigeria's independence.
As Nigerians prepare to celebrate their 66th Independence anniversary, the country is faced with various challenges, including insecurity, economic instability, and social unrest. However, the government and citizens alike are optimistic about the future and are working towards building a better Nigeria.
The Federal Government's declaration of a public holiday on October 1 is an opportunity for Nigerians to come together and celebrate their nation's progress, reflect on its challenges, and look forward to a brighter future. The government has called on citizens to remain committed to national unity and peaceful coexistence.
Key points
- The Federal Government has declared October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary.
- Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, urged Nigerians to emulate the country's founding fathers by demonstrating commitment to the nation's progress.
- The administration's Renewed Hope Agenda would continue to pursue measures aimed at building a better Nigeria for all citizens.
