FG Declares Friday Public Holiday For Eid-Ul-Mawlid

The Federal Government has announced that Friday, September 5, will be observed as a public holiday in commemoration of Eid-ul-Mawlid, the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

The announcement was made on Wednesday in a statement signed by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, on behalf of the Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

In the statement, Ajani congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and abroad on the occasion and encouraged them to follow the Prophet’s example of peace, compassion, tolerance, humility, and love.

She further urged Nigerians of all faiths to use the day to pray for peace, security, and national stability, while also supporting efforts to strengthen unity and development.

According to the minister, Eid-ul-Mawlid is another opportunity to deepen brotherhood, promote peaceful coexistence, and embrace the Prophet’s teachings on respect and service to humanity.

He also appealed to citizens to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and supportive of government policies that promote unity and sustainable growth.

The statement reads “FG DECLARES FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2025, PUBLIC HOLIDAY TO MARK EID-UL-MAWLID

“The Federal Government has declared Friday, 5th September 2025, as a public holiday to commemorate the celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

“The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government extended warm felicitations to Muslims Umah in Nigeria and across the world on this occasion.

“Dr. Tunji-Ojo enjoined the Muslim faithful to reflect on the virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), stressing that these values remain essential in building a united, prosperous, and progressive nation.

“He further called on Nigerians, regardless of their religious beliefs, to use the occasion to pray for the peace, security, and stability of the country, while supporting the Federal Government’s efforts in fostering national harmony and sustainable development.

“The celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid offers us yet another opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, promote peaceful coexistence, and imbibe the Prophet’s teachings of mutual respect and selfless service to humanity,” the Minister stated.

“Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo also urged citizens to remain law-abiding, security conscious, and supportive of government policies aimed at ensuring the collective well-being of all Nigerians.

“The Minister wishes all Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration.”

Eid-ul-Mawlid is celebrated during the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-Awwal and is marked by prayers, lectures, charity, and community gatherings.

In Nigeria, it is recognised as a national holiday, reflecting both the country’s large Muslim population and its tradition of celebrating major Islamic festivals.