By Becky Momodu
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary, describing the occasion as an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey and its prospects for a stronger future.
The minister called on Nigerians to emulate the nation’s founding fathers by demonstrating love for the country and working collectively towards building a Nigeria that future generations would be proud of.
He stressed that peace and stability remained necessary conditions for national development, urging citizens to uphold unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
“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 said.
Tunji-Ojo assured Nigerians that the Federal Government, through the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, would continue to work towards a better Nigeria as a befitting tribute to the nation’s heroes past.
He further assured citizens of the administration’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.
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Nigeria at 66: FG Declares Thursday Public Holiday, Urges Unity and Patriotism
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday in commemoration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration, congratulated Nigerians in the country and abroad, while urging citizens to use the celebration to reaffirm their commitment to national unity, patriotism and peaceful coexistence.
Tunji-Ojo said peace and stability were essential to the development of the country, calling on Nigerians to draw inspiration from the sacrifices and patriotism of the nation’s founding fathers.
He expressed confidence that Nigeria could achieve a stronger and more prosperous future through collective determination, noting that the country’s diversity remained a source of strength.
The minister also assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to strengthen national security and improve public safety under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He urged citizens to demonstrate mutual respect and contribute to creating a country where all Nigerians can live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
