By Palma Ileye
Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, as a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government on Wednesday, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani and issued to newsmen in Abuja.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary, urging citizens to use the occasion to demonstrate unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
He said peace and stability remained necessary conditions for national development, calling on Nigerians to emulate the country’s founding fathers by demonstrating love for the nation and working towards building a country future generations would be proud of.
He said, “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.”
Tunji-Ojo also assured Nigerians that the Federal Government, through the Renewed Hope Agenda, remained committed to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where citizens could live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
He added that the administration would continue its efforts towards building a better Nigeria as a befitting tribute to the nation’s heroes past.
The Minister described Nigeria’s human and natural resources as major strengths of the country, expressing optimism that the nation could achieve greater prosperity through unity and collective determination.
