The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays to enable Muslim faithful across the country to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha.
The announcement was made on Monday in a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
According to the minister, the declaration underscores the Federal Government’s recognition of the spiritual importance of Eid-ul-Adha and its respect for the millions of Muslims in Nigeria observing the sacred festival.
“This declaration affirms the Federal Government’s profound respect for the faith and spiritual heritage of millions of Nigerian Muslims who join the global Islamic community in observing this sacred occasion,” the statement said.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslim faithful in Nigeria and the diaspora on the celebration, describing Eid-ul-Adha as a solemn period that embodies the virtues of sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion for humanity.
He called on Nigerians to use the occasion to offer prayers for the nation’s peace, security, and prosperity, while promoting the values of unity and mutual understanding.
“It is in the spirit of brotherhood, shared humanity, and national unity that the Federal Government wishes all Muslims a peaceful, blessed, and joyous celebration,” he added.
The minister further urged citizens to embrace peaceful coexistence and demonstrate kindness toward one another, particularly the vulnerable and less privileged members of society.
He stressed that collective commitment to peace, tolerance, and national cohesion remains vital to Nigeria’s continued stability and development.
As a multi-religious nation, Nigeria traditionally observes major religious festivals from both Islam and Christianity as public holidays. The Federal Government routinely declares work-free days for celebrations such as Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, Christmas, and Easter in recognition of the country’s religious diversity.
Eid-ul-Adha, popularly known in Nigeria as Eid-el-Kabir, is among the most significant festivals in Islam. The celebration commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command and is marked worldwide through prayers, acts of charity, and the symbolic slaughtering of animals, particularly rams.
Meanwhile, preparations for this year’s Eid-el-Kabir have triggered a sharp increase in ram prices across major livestock markets in Abuja and other parts of the country, with premium breeds reportedly selling for as much as ₦1.5 million.
