The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as nationwide public holidays to celebrate Eid al-Kabir, also known as Sallah. The announcement was made by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo through the Ministry of Interior, following confirmation from Saudi Arabia and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, on the official dates for the 2026 festivities.
Official Announcement
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, formally announced the public holidays in an official statement released on Monday. The statement was signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani. In the announcement, Dr. Tunji-Ojo extended warm wishes and heartfelt greetings to all Muslims in Nigeria and those celebrating abroad.
Part of the statement read: “The Federal Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has declared Wednesday, 27th May, and Thursday, 28th May, 2026, as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid al-Adha.” The minister described the declaration as a reflection of the government’s profound respect for the faith and spiritual heritage of millions of Nigerian Muslims observing the sacred occasion with the global Islamic community.
Call for Unity and Reflection
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslim faithful in Nigeria and the diaspora, describing Eid al-Kabir as “a festival of deep spiritual significance rooted in sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion for humanity.” He urged Nigerians to use the holiday period for prayer and sober reflection, asking for divine guidance upon the country as it continues its pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity for every citizen.
The government further called on citizens to embrace unity, brotherhood, and peaceful coexistence during the celebration. With the official announcement, workers across both the public and private sectors nationwide are expected to observe the break as families gather to celebrate the annual festival. Normal business activities are expected to fully resume on Friday, May 29, 2026.
