The Federal Government has announced that Friday, September 5, 2025, will be observed as a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid, the annual celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The statement extended warm greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and abroad, encouraging them to reflect on the Prophet’s life and emulate his virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion.
The government further urged citizens of all faiths to take the opportunity to pray for the peace, security, and progress of the nation. Nigerians were also reminded to support ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening national unity and building a more prosperous future for all.
In the message, the Minister of Interior wished Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid. He emphasized that the commemoration provides an opportunity to deepen the spirit of brotherhood, strengthen peaceful coexistence, and practice the Prophet’s teachings of respect and service to humanity. The government appealed to the public to remain law-abiding and security conscious during the celebration, while supporting policies designed to promote national development.
Eid-ul-Mawlid falls in the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-Awwal and is widely celebrated across the Muslim world. In Nigeria, it is officially recognized as a national public holiday, reflecting both the country’s significant Muslim population and its tradition of observing major Islamic festivals with prayers, processions, lectures, and charitable activities.
As the holiday approaches, the government’s message highlights its continued effort to foster unity, encourage religious tolerance, and uphold shared values of peace and stability at a time when the country faces multiple challenges.
