The United States and Saudi Arabia have both extended congratulatory messages to Nigeria as the country celebrated its 66th independence anniversary on Thursday, October 1, 2026. The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Nigeria was among the first to issue a message, sharing its “warmest congratulations” with the Nigerian government and people through a social media post on X (formerly Twitter). The Saudi embassy also wished Nigeria continued peace, progress and prosperity.
US Mission Highlights Strong Bilateral Ties
The United States Mission in Nigeria also released a statement on behalf of the American government, congratulating Nigerians on the occasion. The mission used the message to draw attention to the depth of the relationship between the two nations, noting that the United States places “great value” on its bilateral ties with Nigeria and pointing to substantive dialogue between both governments over the past year.
The statement recognised Nigeria's role in promoting regional stability and economic growth on the African continent, and listed democratic principles, religious freedom, commercial ties, peace and security as shared priorities between Washington and Abuja.
“The United States is proud to stand alongside Nigeria in pursuit of these common goals,” the mission said, before closing with wishes for peace, unity, prosperity and hope for generations of Nigerians to come.
Nigeria Marks 66 Years of Independence
The congratulatory messages came as Nigerians across the country and in the diaspora gathered to celebrate the milestone. The occasion marks 66 years since Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960. Nigeria became a republic three years later, with Nnamdi Azikiwe assuming the role of the president.
In a broadcast to the nation on Thursday morning, October 1, Bola Tinubu, the president, expressed hope of progress, saying his administration has moved beyond the initial phase of economic reforms and is now focused on delivering shared prosperity for Nigerians.
Embassies and Banks Announce Closures
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that diplomatic missions in Nigeria are among the institutions expected to observe the 2026 Independence Day public holiday. Members of the public with appointments at embassies or consulates on Thursday, October 1, should confirm their schedules and make alternative arrangements where necessary.
Similarly, banks, including Access Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Zenith Bank, will shut their physical branches across the country. The messages from the US and Saudi Arabia underscored the international recognition of Nigeria's independence milestone, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to continued cooperation.
