The Federal Government of Nigeria has outlined the anticipated public holidays for the year 2026, providing a crucial calendar for citizens, businesses, and institutions to plan the coming year. These mandated breaks offer vital respite and opportunities for celebration, reflection, and travel across Africa's most populous nation.
Comprehensive Calendar of National Breaks
The schedule for 2026 features a blend of Christian, Muslim, and national commemorations. The year's observances begin with Good Friday on Friday, April 3, 2026. This Christian holiday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is followed closely by Easter Monday on April 6, 2026, extending the Easter celebration which commemorates the resurrection of Christ.
In the first quarter, Muslims will observe Eid-el-Fitr, tentatively scheduled for the evening of Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026. The final date, as always, hinges on the moon sighting and the official announcement from Sa'ad Abubakar, the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA). This holiday celebrates the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.
Key National and International Observances
International Workers' Day, also known as Labour Day, falls on Friday, May 1, 2026. This day honours the contributions and struggles of the workforce. Following this, Eid-el-Kabir (Eid-al-Adha) is expected to be observed around Wednesday, May 27, 2026, subject to lunar confirmation. This festival of sacrifice follows the annual Hajj pilgrimage, and the federal government typically declares more than one day as a public holiday for this event.
A cornerstone of Nigeria's democratic journey, Democracy Day will be marked on Friday, June 12, 2026. This public holiday, declared by the Bola Tinubu administration, allows citizens to commemorate the nation's return to democratic rule in 1999.
Final Quarter Holidays and Year-End Festivities
Later in the year, Muslims will celebrate Eid-el-Maulud, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. The tentative date is Tuesday, August 25, 2026, though this could shift to Wednesday, August 26, based on the sighting of the moon for the Islamic month of Rabi' al-Awwal.
Nigeria will mark its 66th Independence Anniversary on Thursday, October 1, 2026, celebrating freedom from British colonial rule. The year concludes with the festive Christmas period. Christmas Day is on Friday, December 25, 2026, followed immediately by Boxing Day on Saturday, December 26, 2026. Both days are recognized as public holidays in Nigeria.
These officially declared breaks serve as essential pauses in the national rhythm, offering Nigerians scheduled moments for rest, cultural and religious observance, and family time amidst the bustling pace of daily life.
