26 May 2026
The Federal Government has announced Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Adha celebration.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement released on Monday and signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani.
The government said the decision reflects its recognition of the Islamic faith and the spiritual importance of Eid-ul-Adha to millions of Muslims in Nigeria and worldwide.
“The Federal Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has declared Wednesday, 27th May and Thursday, 28th May, 2026 as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid ul Adha,” the statement read.
Congratulating Muslim faithful both at home and abroad, Tunji-Ojo described the festival as one rooted in sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion for humanity. He called on Nigerians to use the period for prayer and reflection, urging them to seek divine guidance for the country as it works toward peace, security, and economic prosperity.
“The Federal Government urges all Nigerians to use this period for prayer and sober reflection, asking for divine guidance upon the country as it continues its pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity for every citizen,” the statement added.
The government also wished Muslims a peaceful and joyous celebration and appealed for greater unity, brotherhood, and mutual understanding across the country.
Eid-ul-Adha, also called Eid-el-Kabir or the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of Islam’s most important festivals and is observed by Muslims globally.
Meanwhile, travel activity has picked up in several parts of the country, including Lagos, as people begin moving ahead of the holidays.
To ensure safer roads during the festive period, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Kwara State Sector Command, said it has deployed 950 personnel — including officers, regular marshals, special marshals, and first responders — across the state. The command has also positioned 16 patrol vehicles, four ambulances, and a 70-tonne tow truck to assist with traffic control and emergency response.
Motorists were advised to obey traffic rules strictly. The FRSC warned against speeding, dangerous driving, wrongful overtaking, overloading, using mobile phones while driving, tyre violations, lane indiscipline, and failure to use seatbelts.
