The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, a public holiday to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The government congratulated Muslims across Nigeria and in the diaspora on the occasion, urging them to emulate the Prophet’s virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion. Citizens of all faiths were also encouraged to use the celebration to pray for peace, security, and stability in the country while supporting efforts to strengthen national unity and development.
“The Minister of Interior wishes Muslims a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration. 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 government further appealed to Nigerians to remain law-abiding, security-conscious, and supportive of policies aimed at fostering sustainable development.
Eid-ul-Mawlid, observed in the third month of the Islamic calendar (Rabi’ al-Awwal), commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad and is traditionally marked with prayers, lectures, processions, and acts of charity. In Nigeria, it is a national public holiday reflecting the country’s large Muslim population and long-standing tradition of observing major Islamic festivals.