10 Things to Know About New Holiday Officially Declared by FG
- Nigeria’s Federal Government has officially declared a public holiday for Eid-el-Maulud in 2025, marking a nationwide observance of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth
- The celebration, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, brings together communities in reflection, prayer, and acts of charity
- As Muslims across the country prepare for the festivities, here are key insights into the significance and customs of Eid-el-Maulud
As Nigeria’s Federal Government officially declared a public holiday for Eid-el-Maulud in 2025, citizens across the country prepared to mark one of Islam’s most revered occasions.
The celebration, which honours the birth of Prophet Muhammad, has long held cultural and spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. Here are ten key things to know about Eid-el-Maulud and its observance in Nigeria and beyond.
Source: Facebook
Eid-el-Maulud Date and Significance
Eid-el-Maulud is observed annually on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The date varies each year in the Gregorian calendar due to the lunar cycle. The celebration serves as a time to honour the life, teachings, and legacy of Prophet Muhammad, whose message of compassion and justice continues to inspire millions.
Global Celebrations of Eid-el-Maulud
Muslims around the world celebrate Eid-el-Maulud with diverse customs and traditions. In countries such as Nigeria, Indonesia, Egypt, and Pakistan, the day is marked with vibrant public gatherings, religious observances, and cultural festivities. While the core message remains universal, local expressions of devotion often reflect regional heritage and community values.
Religious Observances During Eid-el-Maulud
The occasion is deeply spiritual, with Muslims participating in special prayers and sermons that focus on the Prophet’s virtues and teachings. Mosques and prayer grounds host gatherings where worshippers reflect on the Prophet’s role as a moral and spiritual guide, reinforcing their commitment to Islamic principles.
Remembering the Prophet Muhammad
Eid-el-Maulud encourages Muslims to reflect on the Prophet’s life—his humility, kindness, and unwavering dedication to justice. Many use the day to renew personal goals rooted in self-improvement and emulate the Prophet’s example in their daily lives.
Community Gatherings and Parades
Across Nigeria and other Muslim-majority nations, communities have organised processions, parades, and public events to celebrate the Prophet’s birth. These gatherings often feature Islamic poetry, music, and storytelling, creating a festive atmosphere that brings people together in unity and reverence.
Acts of Charity During Eid-el-Maulud
Charitable giving is a central theme of Eid-el-Maulud. Muslims have donated food, clothing, and money to support the less fortunate, reflecting the Prophet’s teachings on compassion and social responsibility. Many organisations and individuals have used the holiday to launch community outreach initiatives.
Feasting and Hospitality Traditions
As with other Islamic festivals, Eid-el-Maulud is a time for feasting and hospitality. Families have prepared special dishes and sweets, inviting neighbours and friends to share in the celebration. Gift exchanges and warm greetings have further strengthened social bonds.
Educational Programmes on Eid-el-Maulud
Islamic schools and religious organisations have hosted educational events to deepen understanding of the Prophet’s life and message. These programmes have targeted both Muslim and non-Muslim audiences, fostering greater awareness and appreciation of Islamic history and values.
Promoting Interfaith Dialogue
In some communities, Eid-el-Maulud has served as a platform for interfaith dialogue. Events have been organised to bring together people of different religious backgrounds, encouraging respectful conversations and mutual learning about Islam and its teachings.
Reflection and Gratitude During Eid-el-Maulud
Above all, Eid-el-Maulud is a time for reflection and gratitude. Muslims have used the occasion to express thanks for the blessings in their lives and to reaffirm their commitment to the values taught by Prophet Muhammad compassion, humility, and unity.
Source: UGC
42 dead in Niger boat accident during Mawlid
Legit.ng earlier reported that the death toll from the recent boat mishap in Niger State has risen to 42.
Six more bodies were recovered by divers and rescue teams from the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) between 6pm on Thursday and 9am on Friday.
The Director General of NSEMA, Alhaji Abdullahi Baba Arah, confirmed the recovery, stating, “The recovery of 6 more bodies brought the total number of deaths to 42 on Friday morning.”
Source: Legit.ng
