ABUJA — The Federal Government has announced Friday, September 5, 2025, as a public holiday in commemoration of Eid-ul-Mawlid, the annual celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The declaration was made on Wednesday in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
In the statement, the government congratulated Muslims across Nigeria and in the diaspora, urging them to reflect on and emulate the Prophet’s life of peace, humility, compassion, tolerance, and love for humanity.
“The Minister of Interior wishes Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration,” the statement read, while also encouraging all Nigerians, irrespective of faith, to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity, security, and progress of the country.
Eid-ul-Mawlid, celebrated in the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, is marked by prayers, lectures, processions, and charitable activities. In Nigeria, the day is officially recognized as a national public holiday due to the country’s significant Muslim population and cultural tradition of observing Islamic festivals.
The government further called on Nigerians to support its efforts in fostering national unity and economic development, noting that moments of religious celebration provide opportunities to strengthen social harmony in the face of ongoing security and economic challenges.
