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  • FG Declares May 27, 28 Public Holidays For Eid-ul-Adha Celebration

    The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays to celebrate this year’s Eid-ul-Adha festival.

    The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, on Monday in Abuja.

    FG Felicitates Muslims

    According to the statement, the declaration reflects the Federal Government’s recognition of the spiritual significance of the Islamic celebration observed by millions of Muslims in Nigeria and around the world.

    Tunji-Ojo extended warm greetings to Muslim faithful both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, describing Eid-ul-Adha as a period that symbolises sacrifice, obedience to God, compassion, and faith.

    Call For Prayers, Unity

    The Federal Government also urged Nigerians to use the holiday period to pray for the country and reflect on the need for peace, unity, and national progress.

    “It is in the spirit of brotherhood, shared humanity, and national unity that the Federal Government wishes all Muslims a peaceful, blessed, and joyous celebration,” the statement read.

    The government further expressed hope that the values associated with Eid-ul-Adha would strengthen harmony and peaceful coexistence across the country.

  • Workers’ Day: How US Labour Protests Shaped Nigeria’s May 1 Holiday

    International Workers’ Day, observed every May 1, has its origins in 19th-century labour protests in the United States, a movement that now shapes how Nigeria recognises workers and their rights.

    How the movement began

    The history of May 1 dates back to 1886, when American workers staged widespread protests demanding an eight-hour workday.

    The agitation peaked during the Chicago protests and the Haymarket Affair, a turning point that drew global attention to labour struggles and workers’ rights.

    From protest to global recognition

    By 1889, labour groups in Europe had adopted May 1 as a day of international solidarity.

    Over time, the observance spread across continents, evolving into one of the most recognised global holidays focused on labour rights, welfare, and social justice.

    Nigeria’s labour roots and adoption

    In Nigeria, organised labour began gaining ground in the 1940s during the colonial era.

    Following independence in 1960, May 1 was officially declared a public holiday, with labour unions such as the Nigeria Labour Congress playing a central role in its observance.

    What Workers’ Day represents today

    Beyond rallies and speeches, the day has taken on broader meaning in Nigeria.

    It now serves as a moment for workers across sectors to reflect on wages, job conditions, and the realities of earning a living in a changing economy.

    A day shaped by present realities

    As economic pressures persist, Workers’ Day continues to highlight both progress and challenges.

    For many Nigerians, it is no longer just symbolic, but a reminder of ongoing struggles tied to inflation, productivity, and national development.

  • FG Declares May 1 Public Holiday for Workers’ Day

    The Federal Government has declared Friday, May 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark this year’s International Workers’ Day celebration across the country.

    Interior Ministry announces holiday

    The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulating Nigerian workers for their contributions to national development.

    The disclosure was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday night by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.

    Workers praised for national contribution

    Tunji-Ojo commended workers for their dedication and resilience, noting that their efforts remain critical to Nigeria’s growth and long-term prosperity.

    He acknowledged the role of the workforce in sustaining key sectors of the economy and driving national productivity.

    The minister also emphasised the importance of recognising workers’ contributions through continued support and policy attention.

    Call for patriotism and productivity

    According to the statement, workers were encouraged to remain patriotic, committed, and productive in their respective roles.

    The minister noted that discipline and dedication are essential for achieving sustainable development and economic stability.

    He further urged workers to continue upholding values that promote national unity and progress.

    Government reiterates commitment to welfare

    The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare and security of workers while creating an enabling environment for economic growth.

    The minister said ongoing efforts are focused on strengthening systems that support workers across sectors.

    He added that policies will continue to be geared towards enhancing productivity and national development.

    Appeal for peace during celebration

    While wishing Nigerians a peaceful Workers’ Day celebration, the government urged citizens to remain law-abiding and responsible.

    The minister encouraged reflection on the importance of unity, hard work, and collective responsibility in nation-building.

    The public holiday provides an opportunity for workers to rest and recognise their role in shaping the country’s future.