Federal Government Declares Wednesday and Thursday as Public Holidays for Eid-ul-Adha Celebration

The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays in observance of this year’s Eid-ul-Adha celebration.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement released on Monday by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani. According to the statement, the government’s decision underscores its respect for the Islamic faith and the importance of Eid-ul-Adha to millions of Muslims across Nigeria and the world.

“The Federal Government 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 in part.

Minister Tunji-Ojo extended his congratulations to Muslims in Nigeria and the diaspora, describing Eid-ul-Adha as a festival rooted in sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion for humanity. He encouraged Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for the nation and support ongoing efforts towards national peace, security, and prosperity.

“The Federal Government urges all Nigerians to use this period for prayer and sober reflection, seeking divine guidance for the country as it strives for peace, security, and prosperity for all citizens,” the statement added.

The government also wished Muslims a peaceful and joyous celebration, calling for unity, brotherhood, and mutual understanding among all Nigerians.

Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Eid-el-Kabir or the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic celebrations, observed by Muslims worldwide.

Meanwhile, increased travel has been observed across the country, especially in Lagos, as people prepare for the holidays.

In anticipation of the festivities, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Kwara State Sector Command announced the deployment of 950 personnel, including officers, marshals, special marshals, and first responders, throughout the state. The command has also positioned 16 patrol vehicles, four ambulances, and a 70-tonne tow truck to support traffic management and emergency response during the holiday.

Motorists have been urged to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, with the FRSC warning against speeding, dangerous driving, wrongful overtaking, overloading, use of mobile phones while driving, tyre violations, lane indiscipline, and failure to use seatbelts.