The Federal Government has announced that Friday, September 5 will be observed as a public holiday in commemoration of Eid-ul-Mawlid, which marks the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
This was revealed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Ajani extended congratulations to Muslims within Nigeria and in the diaspora, urging them to reflect the Prophet’s virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion. She further encouraged Nigerians of all faiths to use the occasion to pray for peace, security, and stability in the country while supporting government efforts to foster national unity and development.
“The Minister of Interior wishes Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration.
“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 also appealed to citizens to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and supportive of policies designed to enhance unity and sustainable growth.
Observed in the third month of the Islamic calendar (Rabi’ al-Awwal), Eid-ul-Mawlid is traditionally marked with prayers, lectures, processions, and charitable acts. In Nigeria, it is recognised as a national public holiday, reflecting both the country’s large Muslim population and its long-standing tradition of observing major Islamic festivals.
See the full statement below:
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.
SIGNED
Dr. Magdalene Ajani,
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Interior.September 3, 2025.