Nigeria is preparing for the celebration of its 65th National Day, observed annually in the most populous black nation on EarthPreparations are underway for one of the most important public holidays in the country’s 111 historyLegit.ng highlights the nationwide public holiday that the Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government will declare in early OctoberLegit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9 years of experience covering public affairs and governance.
FCT, Abuja – The federal government will declare a nationwide public holiday to be observed on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
Legit.ng reports that the holiday in Lagos, Kano, Rivers, and all other Nigerian states, will commemorate the 2025 Independence Day.
Nigerians will enjoy Independence Day public holiday in October 2025. The interior ministry, led by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, declares national holidays in Nigeria.
Photo credit: @BTOofficial
Source: TwitterNigeria’s Independence Day is celebrated annually on October 1, 1960, marking its proclamation of independence from British colonial rule. The holiday is legally recognised under the Public Holidays Act 1979, which designates 1 October as Nigeria’s national day.
The country’s 65th National Day celebrations are set to feature a series of coordinated events across all states, with major public and private venues playing host to national-focused programmes.
Independence Day 2025: FG inaugurates committeeAlready, the federal government has inaugurated the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) for the 2025 Independence Day celebration with a mandate to plan, organise, and execute all programmes marking Nigeria’s 65th anniversary.
Speaking at the inauguration, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), George Akume, underscored the importance of patriotism and collective responsibility in nation-building.
He said:
“This anniversary is a reminder of where we are coming from and where we are going from here. As a nation, we have faced challenges in areas such as political, economic, and social issues, but we have overcome them.”October 1st: FG to honour outstanding NigeriansIn the same vein, ahead of the 65th Independence Anniversary, the federal government has announced plans to honour 250 exceptional Nigerians who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and patriotism in their respective fields.
The initiative, is part of a landmark project titled “Nigeria Celebrates”, which will culminate in the publication of a compendium showcasing top-performing Nigerians across the globe.
The commemorative project is a collaboration between the SGF’s office and OyanaHealth Limited, a Nigerian-based technology-focused platform.
Speaking in Abuja, Akume said:
“This initiative presents a timely opportunity to reflect, project and celebrate the values that define the Nigerian spirit.”Traditionally, the ministry of Interior under Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announces public holiday days in Nigeria.
Photo credit: Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
Source: FacebookHow Independence Day is celebratedThe president gives a national address, and state governments hold parades and cultural events.
Nigerians abroad also organise celebrations in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom (UK), and Canada. International partners often issue messages of goodwill.
Civic groups in Nigeria have sometimes used the occasion to stage protests or highlight grievances.
Read more on public holidays in Nigeria:
Nigerian govt declares Eid-el-Maolud public holidayIsese Day: List of states that have declared Monday public holidayIsese Day: Nigerian governor declares Monday public holidayUS embassy in Nigeria to observe holidaysEarlier, Legit.ng reported that the United States (US) Embassy in Nigeria officially announced the days its offices would be closed in 2025 and gave reasons for these closures.
The dates include public holidays in the US and Nigeria, reflecting the embassy’s commitment to honouring both nations.
Proofreading by Kola Muhammed, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
