The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulating Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion of the nation’s 66th anniversary.
In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, the Minister described Nigeria’s warmth, hospitality, abundant human capital and natural resources as major national assets, saying the country remains a leading nation in Africa and a beacon of hope under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Tunji-Ojo stressed that peace and stability were necessary conditions for national development, urging Nigerians to emulate the country’s founding fathers by demonstrating love for the nation and contributing to the building of a Nigeria that future generations would be proud of.
“As we celebrate 66 years of our independence, we should always remember that there is hope for our country and our diversity is our strength, and our collective determination remains the foundation upon which a stronger and more prosperous nation will be built,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to use the Independence celebration as an opportunity to demonstrate unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
The Minister assured citizens that the Federal Government remained committed to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where Nigerians could live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
He further assured that the administration, through the Renewed Hope Agenda, would continue working towards building a better Nigeria for all citizens as a befitting tribute to the nation’s heroes past.
