Embassies, Consulates Set to Close as FG Declares Public Holiday
- Nigeria's Federal Government declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, a public holiday to mark Eid ul Mawlid
- The announcement came from the Ministry of Interior, with Permanent Secretary Magdalene Ajani signing the official statement
- Embassies and consulates across Nigeria are expected to adjust their operations in line with the work-free day
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Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has a decade of experience in education and public affairs journalism, with extensive knowledge of Nigeria’s education sector, public policy, governance, and issues affecting students, teachers, and communities.
FCT, Abuja - Nigeria's Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, a public holiday to mark Eid ul Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad, with embassies, consulates, and several offices nationwide expected to shut their doors for the day.
Permanent Secretary Magdalene Ajani signed the official statement on Friday, August 21, on behalf of Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, confirming that the holiday would apply to government offices, learning institutions, and formal-sector organisations across the country.
Source: Getty Images
Diplomatic missions in Nigeria are among the institutions expected to observe the holiday, meaning members of the public with appointments at embassies or consulates on Tuesday, August 25, should confirm their schedules ahead of time and make alternative arrangements where needed.
Tunji-Ojo urges Nigerians to reflect
Tunji-Ojo used the occasion to address Nigerians of all faiths, urging everyone to draw meaning from the values associated with the life of the Holy Prophet.
He said in a statement shared on the Ministry of Interior's official X page:
"Every Eid ul Mawlid gives us reason to pause and draw lessons from a life defined by compassion, humility and service to others. These are qualities our nation needs now more than ever, and I encourage every Nigerian, not just our Muslim brothers and sisters, to reflect on them."
Furthermore, the minister extended congratulations to Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora, calling on citizens to use the celebration as an opportunity to pray for peace and national unity. He described building a cohesive country as a shared responsibility that belongs to every Nigerian, regardless of religious affiliation.
Source: Facebook
Tunji-Ojo urges peaceful Mawlid celebration
Beyond the religious message, Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to mark the holiday with restraint and mutual respect.
Additionally, the minister reaffirmed the federal government's "commitment" to protecting lives and property and maintaining peaceful conditions across the country during the celebration and beyond.
Read more on public holidays
- US Embassy lists days it will close its offices in Nigeria
- Saudi Arabia, Sultan confirm date for new Islamic calendar year 1447 AH
- Holiday confirmed in South Africa
Universities to close nationwide for holiday
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that universities and polytechnics across Nigeria will be closed after the Federal Government declared a public holiday to mark Eid ul Mawlid 2026.
Campuses are expected to be largely empty as classes and regular administrative activities come to a halt. Most students are likely to stay away from lecture theatres, while many residence halls, dining facilities, and campus offices may close or reduce their operating hours to cut costs and safeguard facilities.
Source: Legit.ng
