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By Stella Odueme
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement issued by the Ministry on Wednesday.
The statement, signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, said the minister congratulated Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on the anniversary.
Tunji-Ojo urged citizens to use the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to national unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
He identified Nigeria’s human and natural resources, as well as the warmth and hospitality of its people, as some of the country’s greatest assets, noting that the nation remains a source of pride and hope across Africa.
The minister also emphasised the importance of peace and stability to national development, calling on Nigerians to emulate the country’s founding fathers by demonstrating patriotism and working towards a nation 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.
Tunji-Ojo assured Nigerians that the Federal Government, through the Renewed Hope Agenda, would sustain efforts to build a better Nigeria as a fitting tribute to the nation’s heroes past.
He further reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an enabling environment for Nigerians to live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.