The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, as a public holiday to commemorate Eid-ul-Mawlid, the annual celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
The announcement was made 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 government congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the occasion, urging them to emulate the Prophet’s life and teachings. “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 statement read.
The ministry also called on Nigerians of all faiths to use the holiday as a moment for prayers, particularly for peace, security, and stability in the country. Citizens were encouraged to remain law-abiding and security conscious while supporting government efforts to foster national unity and development.
Eid-ul-Mawlid, observed in the third month of the Islamic calendar (Rabi’ al-Awwal), is marked with prayers, lectures, processions, and charitable activities. In Nigeria, the day is a recognised national holiday, reflecting the country’s significant Muslim population and its tradition of observing major Islamic festivals.
The holiday is often used by religious and political leaders to call for peace, tolerance, and unity, especially at a time when the country continues to grapple with challenges of insecurity and economic hardship.
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