Nigerian banks, including Access Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA), and Zenith Bank, will shut their physical branches across the country on Thursday, October 1, 2026, in observance of Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary. The federal government has declared the date a public holiday, and the Nigerian Exchange Group's 2026 trading calendar also lists October 1 as a non-trading day on the Exchange.
Stanbic IBTC and Optimus Bank Notify Customers
Stanbic IBTC has informed customers that its branches will be closed on Thursday, October 1, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. The bank stated: "Please note that our branches will be closed on Thursday, 01 October 2026, in observance of the Independence Day holiday." The bank added, "We will be back to serve you as usual on Friday."
Customers have been advised to use the bank's ATMs, @ease Wallet, internet banking, mobile app, and USSD service for their banking needs while branches remain closed.
Optimus Bank has also notified customers that its banking halls will be closed. "Please note that our banking halls will be closed on Thursday, October 1st, 2026, in observance of Independence Day," Optimus Bank said in its notice.
Federal Government Declares Public Holiday
The federal government, through the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, congratulated Nigerians at home and in the diaspora and called on citizens to reflect on the values of unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence, and mutual respect. The ministry's Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, issued the statement through the ministry's official X handle on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Tunji-Ojo noted that this year's Independence Day anniversary is being celebrated under the theme, "From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria's Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity." 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."
The minister also urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the country's founding fathers and work towards building a nation that future generations would be proud to inherit.
Impact on Customers and Digital Banking
The October 1 public holiday means customers will have to rely on digital banking channels for many transactions. With physical branches closed, banks are directing customers to use ATMs, mobile apps, USSD codes, and internet banking services to meet their banking needs during the holiday period.
Branches are expected to reopen on Friday, October 2, 2026, when normal banking operations resume across the country.
