FG declares October 1 public holiday for Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary

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

According to Vanguard, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced the holiday on behalf of the government in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani.

Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad and urged citizens to embrace unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

He said peace and stability are a “necessary condition for the development of any nation.”

“As we celebrate 66th 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 added.

Tunji-Ojo said “a new Nigeria is achievable,” assuring citizens that the government remains committed to strengthening national security and improving public safety nationwide.