Independence Day of Nigeria (2026)

Nigeria celebrates its National Day on the day it acquired independence from British rule. In 1960, the country proclaimed its autonomy from the British Empire. From then on, the 1st of October each year is celebrated as Nigeria’s Independence Day, also known as its National Day.

Here is everything you need to know about National Day (Independence Day) in Nigeria.

Table of Contents

• Is Independence Day in Nigeria a public holiday?
• History of Independence Day in Nigeria
• Important Independence Day Symbols in Nigeria
• Nigeria Independence Day Activities and Celebrations
• Past and Future Observances of Independence Day in Nigeria

Is Independence Day in Nigeria a public holiday?

National Day (Independence Day) in Nigeria is considered a public holiday. It is a day off from work and school for a majority of the population. Most businesses are closed on the 1st of October as everyone joins in the nationwide celebration. Shopping malls, markets, and shops, however, remain open.

History of Independence Day in Nigeria

Human civilization in Nigeria goes back to 1100 BC. Historians state that several African civilizations, such as the Kingdom of Nri, Benin Empire, Songhai Empire, and the Oyo Empire had once settled in the country.

Centuries later, the British invaded Lagos, the former capital of Nigeria. In 1901, the whole nation (including the Northern Nigeria Protectorate and the Southern Nigeria Protectorate) became a British Protectorate. Britain took over the country’s natural resources for more than a hundred years. After World War II, a movement for independence was established.

On October 1, 1960, Nigeria acquired its independence from being a British Protectorate and became the Federation of Nigeria, headed by an all-Nigerian Executive Council for three years. Later on, it became the Federal Republic of Nigeria led by its first President, Nnamdi Azikiwe.

Important Independence Day Symbols in Nigeria

The Nigerian flag was first hoisted on the day the country acquired its independence. Thus, it is an important symbol in the celebration of the Nigerian Independence Day. The flag consists of three vertical bands of two colors, green and white. The two green stripes on both sides represent the country’s natural wealth, while the white stripe at the center represents peace.

Nigeria Independence Day Activities and Celebrations

Independence Day (National Day) in Nigeria is celebrated by every citizen, regardless of religion and local culture. During this special day, Nigerians join various activities to commemorate the day their country gained its long-awaited independence. On the morning of October 1st, the incumbent President of Nigeria delivers a speech to officially commence the Independence Day celebrations. Once the address is finished, the Nigerian national flag is raised simultaneously with the singing of the national anthem. Afterward, the military officers lead a parade. At Aso Rock (the Presidential Villa), the national cake is also cut.

During the day, the people of Nigeria partake in the merriment. Most Nigerians wear the colors of the Nigerian flag, green and white. Some choose to wave these colors while out in the street. Likewise, some schools and organizations host their own Independence Day parades and cultural shows. Shopping malls also host games and activities for children.

Moreover, clubs and other entertainment hubs in Nigeria host events in line with the Independence Day celebrations, with some venues even offering free admission for women. Everyone is welcome to join private and locally organized parties. Concerts and comedy shows are anticipated events during the Independence Day celebrations as well.

Furthermore, fireworks displays make the celebrations brighter. While there are no official fireworks displays sponsored by the government, children and teens usually buy fireworks from their local vendors. Independence Day is the perfect excuse to have a day out with the family too. Nigerians often visit friends and relatives, bond over a picnic on a park, go to the beach, and share a traditional meal of “jollof” rice and chicken or soup.

Nigerians who are living in another country, such as the United States, join in the Independence Day celebrations. Since 1991, New York’s streets are a venue of Independence Day activities for Nigerians in the country.

Past and Future Observances of Independence Day in Nigeria

Below are the past and future observances of the Independence Day (National Day) of Nigeria over a span of ten years: