The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, as a public holiday in commemoration of Eid-ul-Mawlid, the annual celebration marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement issued by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on Tuesday in Abuja.
In his message, the minister extended warm greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and in the diaspora.
He urged them to use the period of Eid-ul-Mawlid to reflect on the exemplary life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, particularly his values of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion.
“On behalf of the Federal Government, I congratulate all Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-ul-Mawlid.
I encourage everyone to embrace the virtues of the Holy Prophet in their daily lives,” Tunji-Ojo said.
He also appealed to Nigerians of all religious backgrounds to seize the opportunity of the holiday to pray fervently for the country’s peace, security, and prosperity.
According to him, the challenges confronting Nigeria require collective commitment, patience, and unity among its citizens.
“The Minister of Interior further calls on Nigerians to support government’s efforts towards achieving stability, unity, and national development.
He wishes Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration,” the statement added.
Eid-ul-Mawlid is observed by Muslims worldwide as a spiritual reflection on the life of Prophet Muhammad and his role as a model for humanity.
In Nigeria, the day is usually marked with prayers, religious lectures, community gatherings, and acts of charity, especially in northern states and parts of the southwest where large Muslim populations reside.
The declaration of Friday as a public holiday means government offices, schools, and most businesses will close, giving citizens time to celebrate the occasion.
It also comes at a time when the federal government is urging citizens to remain steadfast in the pursuit of peace and harmony, despite ongoing economic and security challenges.
With this declaration, Nigeria joins other Muslim-majority and multicultural countries around the world in pausing official activities to honour the Prophet’s birth and teachings.
For many Nigerians, the day will not only serve as a religious observance but also as a reminder of the need for tolerance and unity in a country of diverse faiths and ethnicities.
