The Federal Government has announced Friday, September 5, 2025, as a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Mawlid, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

The declaration was made in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.

According to the statement, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the announcement on behalf of the government, extended warm greetings to Muslims in Nigeria and around the world.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged the Muslim Ummah to emulate the Prophet’s virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion, emphasising that these values are essential for building a united and progressive nation.

He also called on Nigerians of all faiths to use the occasion to pray for the country’s peace, security, and stability, while supporting government efforts toward national harmony and sustainable development.

“The celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid offers us an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, promote peaceful coexistence, and embrace the Prophet’s teachings of mutual respect and selfless service to humanity,” the statement quoted Tunji-Ojo as saying.

The minister further urged citizens to remain law-abiding, security-conscious, and supportive of government policies aimed at improving the well-being of all Nigerians, while wishing Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration.