*Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister for Interior, on behalf of the Nigerian Government, declares Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, urging the citizens to use the occasion to further demonstrate unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect
Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect
For Nigerians to mark the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, the Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Honourable Minister for Interior, announced this on behalf of the Nigerian Government in a statement Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, signed Wednesday.
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It is recalled Nigeria gained political independence from British colonial rule October 1, 1960, with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa becoming the country’s first Prime Minister (PM).
The West African country later became a republic 1963, with late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe as its first President.
The 66th Independence Anniversary, this year, is being celebrated with the theme: “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity”.
The Federal Government explained the theme reflects its focus on consolidating ongoing reforms, and translating their gains into greater opportunities and improved living conditions for Nigerians.
Tunji-Ojo, in the statement, congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary.
He urged citizens to use the occasion to further demonstrate unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
The Minister also advised Nigerians to emulate the country’s founding fathers by demonstrating love, and working towards building a Nigeria that future generations would be proud of.
Tunji-Ojo further stated: “As we celebrate 66 years of our independence, we should always remember that there is hope for our country and our diversity is our strength, and our collective determination remains the foundation upon which a stronger and more prosperous nation will be built.”
The Minister as well assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where citizens can live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
Meanwhile, as part of security arrangements for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations Thursday, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory Command, said it had deployed 3,000 personnel across the FCT, to ensure security of lives and property.
Besides, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast to Nigerians Thursday, October 1, as part of activities marking the 66th Independence Anniversary.
Tinubu returned to Lagos Tuesday, September 29 after ending his four-week working vacation in Paris, France.
The Presidency, in a statement by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement evening Tuesday, noted President Tinubu is expected to hold political meetings in the state as preparations for the 2027 General Elections continue, and make the Independence celebrations in Lagos State before heading for Abuja, FCT.