The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, with Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo urging Nigerians to celebrate with unity, patriotism and peaceful coexistence.
Tunji-Ojo announced the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, on Wednesday, September 30.
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The declaration means workers and citizens across the country will observe the national anniversary on Thursday as Nigeria marks 66 years since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960.
In his message, Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad and encouraged citizens to use the occasion to reflect on the values that have shaped the country since independence.
He called for greater unity and mutual respect among Nigerians, while emphasising the importance of peace and stability to national development.
“As we celebrate 66th years of our independence, we should always remember that there is hope for our country and our diversity is our strength,” Tunji-Ojo said.
The minister added that “our collective determination remains the foundation upon which a stronger and more prosperous nation will be built.”
The anniversary comes as Nigeria continues to navigate economic, security and social challenges, making the Federal Government’s emphasis on national cohesion a central part of its Independence Day message.
Tunji-Ojo also assured Nigerians that the government remained committed to strengthening national security and improving public safety.
He said the Federal Government was working to create an environment where Nigerians could live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with greater confidence.
The minister further linked the government’s approach to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the administration would continue pursuing measures aimed at improving the country for its citizens.
Nigeria became an independent nation on October 1, 1960, following the end of British colonial rule.
The date has since been observed as the country’s Independence Day and remains one of Nigeria’s most significant national occasions.
Over the decades, Independence Day celebrations have combined official ceremonies with cultural events, religious activities and private gatherings across the country.
The 66th anniversary will again provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey while looking ahead to its future.
Tunji-Ojo urged citizens to make peaceful coexistence and national unity part of the anniversary’s significance.
He also encouraged Nigerians to remember the country’s founding generation and their commitment to building an independent nation.
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The public holiday applies on Thursday, October 1, allowing Nigerians to observe the anniversary as the country marks another milestone in its national history.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
