The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on Wednesday.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the 66th anniversary and called on citizens to use the occasion to reflect on the country’s journey since independence.
The minister described Nigeria’s warmth, welcoming spirit, love and abundant human and natural resources as qualities that make the country “unarguably the most prosperous black nation in the world.”
He also described Nigeria as a beacon of hope for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, while stressing the importance of peace and stability to national development.
According to him, “peace and stability are a necessary condition for the development of any nation.”
Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the country’s founding fathers by demonstrating patriotism and working towards building a country that future generations would be proud of.
“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, and our collective determination remains the foundation upon which a stronger and more prosperous nation will be built,” he said.
The minister further assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remained committed to delivering a better country through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He said the administration “will ensure a better Nigeria for all citizens, as a befitting tribute to our heroes past.”
Tunji-Ojo urged citizens to use the Independence anniversary to promote “unity, patriotism, peaceful co-existence and mutual respect.”
He also said, “a new Nigeria is achievable,” adding that the government would continue to focus on national security, public safety and creating an environment where Nigerians can pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
The Independence Day announcement comes as President Tinubu resumes activities in Nigeria after his working vacation in Europe.
The President departed Nigeria on August 30 for London before proceeding to Paris, France, where he continued his engagements. Prior to his arrival, the State House confirmed that he had departed Paris for Nigeria and was expected to arrive in Lagos.
The Presidency said Tinubu chose to return through Lagos partly to honour the memory of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. On October 1, the President is expected to attend the premiere of a movie on Abiola’s life and legacy at the Wole Soyinka National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos.
Tinubu is also expected to hold meetings with political leaders and associates in Lagos before returning to Abuja. According to the Presidency, the meetings are part of preparations for the 2027 general elections.
His return to Nigeria has also drawn attention amid recent public discussion about his health. Shortly after arriving in Lagos, Tinubu dismissed concerns about his wellbeing, saying he was “healthy and sound.”
“I enjoyed myself. I’m ready to kick. I’m ready to work,” the President said when asked about his return and readiness to resume official duties.
The remarks followed claims by African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore that Tinubu had been hospitalised in France. Sowore made the allegation during an interview on Arise Television but said he did not know the nature of the alleged illness.
The Presidency had previously rejected concerns about Tinubu’s health, with Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga describing the President as “hale and hearty.”
Nigeria became independent from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960.