Eid-El-Adha: FG Declares Two-Day Public Holiday, Urges Nigerians To Pray For Peace & Unity

The Federal Government on Monday declared Wednesday, May 27 and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid ul Adha celebration, calling on Nigerians to use the period for “prayer and sober reflection” for the peace, security and prosperity of the country.

Announcing the holidays in a statement issued by the Ministry of Interior, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the declaration underscored the Federal Government’s “profound respect for the faith and spiritual heritage of millions of Nigerian Muslims” joining the global Islamic community in observing the sacred festival.

Tunji-Ojo, who conveyed the goodwill message of the Federal Government to Muslims across Nigeria and in the Diaspora, described Eid ul Adha as “a festival of deep spiritual significance,” rooted in “the values of sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion for one’s fellow man.”

“The Federal Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has declared Wednesday, 27th May and Thursday, 28th May, 2026 as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid ul Adha,” the minister stated.

He stressed that the occasion should go beyond celebration, urging Nigerians to embrace the spirit of brotherhood, shared humanity and national unity.

“The Federal Government urges all Nigerians to use this period for prayer and sober reflection, asking for divine guidance upon the country as it continues its pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity for every citizen,” the statement read.

Tunji-Ojo further noted that the administration remained committed to fostering unity across religious and ethnic divides, adding that the Eid celebration presents another opportunity for citizens to strengthen national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.

“It is in the spirit of brotherhood, shared humanity, and national unity that the Federal Government wishes all Muslims a peaceful, blessed, and joyous celebration,” he added.

The statement, which was signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, came amid preparations by Muslim faithful across the country for one of Islam’s most revered festivals, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.