Nigeria Sets Thursday, Friday as Public Holidays

The Nigerian Government has declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays to mark Eid-el-Fitr.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, on Tuesday. Eid-el-Fitr is an Islamic festival that marks the end of the Muslim month of Ramadan.

Ajani noted that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, extended warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

Tunji-Ojo further enjoined Muslim faithful to sustain the virtues of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice, which were emphasised during the holy month.

Nigeria Declares Thursday, Friday as Public Holidays (News Central TV) — Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Credit: The Guardian Nigeria

The Interior Minister also urged Nigerians to pray for peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria during the festive season.

Tunji-Ojo, who wished Nigerian muslims a pleasant Eid-el-Fitr celebration, encouraged Nigerians to celebrate responsibly and extend acts of kindness to the less privileged in society.

Ajani further reiterated the Nigerian Government’s commitment to fostering national unity and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians.

Author

Olayide Soaga

Olayide Oluwafunmilayo Soaga is a Nigerian journalist with four years of professional experience. She reports on health, gender, education and development, with a focus on impact-driven storytelling.

She was runner-up for the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) Best Solutions Journalism Award in West Africa in 2024 and a finalist for the 2025 West Africa Media Excellence Awards.