The Federal Government has declared Friday, 5 September, a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

This was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

The minister congratulated Muslims at home and abroad, urging them to emulate the Prophet’s virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion.

He also encouraged Nigerians of all faiths to use the occasion to pray for peace, security, and stability, while supporting government efforts to strengthen national unity and foster development.

“The celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid offers yet another opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, promote peaceful coexistence, and imbibe the Prophet’s teachings of mutual respect and selfless service to humanity,” the statement read.

Eid-ul-Mawlid, observed in Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar, is marked with prayers, lectures, processions, and acts of charity. In Nigeria, it is recognised as a national holiday, reflecting the country’s large Muslim population and tradition of observing major Islamic festivals.