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FILE: Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Magdalene Ajani, on Wednesday.
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 called on Nigerians to emulate the nation’s founding fathers by demonstrating love for the country and working towards building a Nigeria that future generations would be proud of.
“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,” he said.
The Minister also assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where citizens can 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.” The Federal Government said the theme reflects its focus on consolidating ongoing reforms and translating their gains into greater opportunities and improved living conditions for Nigerians.
As part of security arrangements for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations, on October 1, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory Command, said it has deployed 3,000 personnel across the Federal Capital.
President Bola Tinubu is expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast to Nigerians on Thursday, October 1, as part of activities marking the anniversary.
The President returned to Lagos on Tuesday after ending his working vacation in Europe and is expected to spend the Independence 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 on Independence Day.
The President is further expected to hold political meetings in Lagos as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue, according to the Presidency.
Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa becoming the country’s first Prime Minister.
The country became a republic three years later, in 1963, with Nnamdi Azikiwe as its first President.
Nigeria subsequently experienced periods of military rule and the Civil War before returning to democratic rule in 1999.
The 2026 anniversary therefore marks 66 years since Nigeria attained independence and 27 years of uninterrupted constitutional democracy. (Channels)
