Nigeria’s workers, particularly those engaged in the public sector and the organised private sector, are currently enjoying the 2-day public holidays declared by the Federal Government on Tuesday the 17th of March, 2026, which commenced today.
A visit to the Federal Secretariat in Abuja and other Federal Government institutions within the Three Arms Zone shows very limited business activity with mostly security personnel keeping watch at their various posts.
The same spectacle is replicated in other parts of the FCT including the Maitama District that houses the Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC), the Transmission Company of Nigeria, the Nigerian Communications Commission ( NCC) and many other strategic organisations.
The Federal Government of Nigeria had declared Thursday, 19th March (today), and Friday, 20th March 2026, as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, which signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, extended warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.
The Minister urges Muslims to sustain the virtues of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice, which were emphasized during the holy month.
He also called on all Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for the continued peace, unity, and prosperity of the nation.
While wishing the Muslim faithful a joyful Eid-ul-Fitr celebration, the Minister encourages citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend acts of kindness to the less privileged in society.
The federal government remains committed to fostering national unity and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians.
Employees engaged in essential services sector such as medical, power, telecommunications as well as security agencies are not covered by the holidays by the nature of their jobs in line with global standards. Small businesses such as cafeteria, hairdressers, tailors are at work as this season provides opportunities for bumper gains.