Eid-el-Fitr: FG Announces Thursday, Friday Public Holidays

The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Thursday and Friday as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration, signaling the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo, in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday.

Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslims across the country for the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and urged citizens to use the period to pray for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria.

He called on Nigerians to embrace the values of sacrifice, discipline, tolerance and compassion which Ramadan represents.

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The minister also urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and avoid actions that could threaten national peace and security.

According to the statement, security agencies have been placed on alert to ensure safe celebrations across the country, while emergency response units are expected to remain on standby during the holidays.

Tunji-Ojo assured Nigerians that the government remains committed to protecting lives and property and maintaining stability during the festive period.

Religious leaders welcomed the announcement, saying the holiday would allow Muslims adequate time to celebrate with family members after the month-long fast.

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs had earlier called on Muslims to look out for the Shawwal crescent, which determines the end of Ramadan.

If the moon is sighted, Eid-el-Fitr will be observed immediately, but if not, fasting will continue for one more day before the celebration.

Eid-el-Fitr is one of the most important festivals in Islam and is usually marked by prayers, charity, family gatherings and community celebrations.

Government offices, banks and schools are expected to resume work after the two-day holiday.