The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the government in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on Wednesday.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the world, urging them to reflect on the Prophet’s virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion. He also called on Nigerians of all faiths to use the occasion to pray for peace, security, and stability in the country, while supporting government efforts toward national unity and 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 said.
He further appealed to citizens to remain law-abiding, security conscious, and supportive of government policies aimed at fostering unity and sustainable growth.
Eid-ul-Mawlid, observed in the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, is marked with prayers, lectures, processions, and acts of charity. It is recognised as a national public holiday in Nigeria, reflecting the country’s large Muslim population and tradition of honouring major Islamic festivals.
