Toyyibat Qasim
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, on Wednesday.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary, urging citizens to use the occasion to promote national unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
He also called on Nigerians to draw inspiration from the country’s founding fathers by demonstrating commitment to the nation and contributing to the building of a country that future generations would be proud of.
The minister said Nigeria’s diversity remained a strength, while expressing optimism that collective determination would help the country achieve greater prosperity.
“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 said.
He further assured citizens that the Federal Government remained committed to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where Nigerians could live, work and pursue their legitimate aspirations with confidence.
The 66th Independence Anniversary is being celebrated under the theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity.”
According to the Federal Government, the theme reflects its efforts to consolidate ongoing reforms and translate their gains into increased opportunities and improved living conditions for Nigerians.
Meanwhile, security agencies have intensified preparations ahead of the anniversary celebrations.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, FCT Command, said it had deployed 3,000 personnel across the Federal Capital Territory to provide security during the Independence Day activities.
The deployment is expected to cover strategic locations and major areas where anniversary-related activities will take place.
President Bola Tinubu is expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast to Nigerians on Thursday as part of activities marking the 66th Independence Anniversary.
The President returned to Lagos on Tuesday after concluding his working vacation in Europe and is expected to spend the Independence Day celebrations in the state.
Tinubu is also expected to attend the premiere of a documentary on the late businessman and politician, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, at the Wole Soyinka National Theatre in Lagos.
The Presidency also indicated that the President is expected to hold political meetings in Lagos as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue.
Nigeria attained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa emerging as the country’s first Prime Minister.
Three years later, in 1963, Nigeria became a republic, with Nnamdi Azikiwe serving as the country’s first President.
The country subsequently went through periods of military rule and the Nigerian Civil War before returning to democratic governance in 1999.
