The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, August 25, 2026, as a public holiday to mark Eid ul Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad. As a result, banks and financial institutions across Nigeria will be closed on that day, although digital and ATM services will remain accessible to customers.
Official Announcement by Ministry of Interior
The announcement was made through the Ministry of Interior, with Permanent Secretary Dr Magdalene Ajani issuing the official statement on Friday on behalf of Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The declaration applies to federal government offices, banks, and most formal sector establishments nationwide.
Customers who need to carry out transactions on the holiday can still use ATMs, mobile banking apps, and other electronic payment channels, as digital services are expected to remain active despite the closure of physical branches.
Minister's Message to Nigerians
Minister Tunji-Ojo used the occasion to congratulate Muslims both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, calling on all citizens regardless of religion to draw lessons from the values associated with the life of the Holy Prophet. He said: "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."
He also asked Nigerians to use the period to pray for peace and national cohesion, describing unity as a shared responsibility that belongs to every citizen. He urged the public to mark the celebration with restraint and respect for one another.
FG Reaffirms Commitment to Peace
Beyond the holiday message, the minister restated the current administration's commitment to protecting lives and property and sustaining peaceful conditions across the country. Ahead of the holiday, banks are expected to encourage customers to use digital platforms to carry out transactions.
Absa Group Closes 79 Branches in Shift to Digital
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Absa Group streamlined its physical banking network during the first half of 2026, shutting 79 traditional branches and taking more than 100 ATMs out of service as fewer customers opted for face-to-face banking. The South African financial institution disclosed the changes in its interim results covering the six months ended June 30, 2026.
Absa’s traditional branch network declined by 18% to 359 locations, while its ATM footprint decreased by 2% to 4,976 machines. The lender explained that the reductions were driven by evolving customer preferences and increased adoption of digital banking, rather than a decision to scale back its overall market presence.
