minister of interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays in commemoration of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
According to the statement, the declaration reflects the Federal Government’s respect for the Islamic faith and the spiritual significance of Eid-el-Kabir to millions of Muslims across Nigeria and around the world.
The government extended warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah, urging citizens to use the festive period for prayers, sober reflection, and seeking divine guidance for peace, unity, security, and national prosperity.
“The celebration should serve as a reminder of the values of sacrifice, obedience, compassion, and shared humanity,” the statement noted.
Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Eid al-Adha, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God before divine intervention provided a ram as a substitute. The festival is traditionally marked by congregational prayers, animal sacrifice, charitable acts, and family visits.
Religious organizations, including the Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT), have also called on Muslims to uphold the principles of peace, unity, and compassion during the celebration.
Meanwhile, security agencies across the country are expected to intensify surveillance and deploy personnel to prayer grounds, highways, markets, and other public places to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration.
Economic activities have also increased in major markets and transport hubs nationwide as Nigerians prepare for the festivities amid rising prices of rams and food items.
The Federal Government reiterated its appeal for Nigerians to embrace tolerance, support the less privileged, and promote national unity during and beyond the festive season.
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