June 2025: See full list of public holidays in Nigeria

As June 2025 approaches, many Nigerians are already planning ahead for the month’s public holidays. While the federal government is yet to make official announcements, two major observances—Eid-el-Kabir and Democracy Day are widely expected to be declared as public holidays, in line with national tradition and religious practice.

Here’s what to know:

1. Eid-el-Kabir 2025 Likely to Hold on Friday, June 6

Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most important Islamic festivals globally. In 2025, the celebration is expected to fall on Friday, June 6, following the recent moon sighting that marked the beginning of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar.

The National Moonsighting Committee confirmed that Dhul Hijjah began on Wednesday, May 28, which places the 10th day—the date of Eid-el-Kabir—on June 6.

The festival commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, in obedience to God. Traditionally, Muslims mark the day with special prayers, the slaughtering of animals like rams, goats, and cows, and the distribution of meat to family, friends, and the less privileged.

In Nigeria, the federal government typically declares two working days as public holidays for Eid-el-Kabir.

2. Democracy Day – Thursday, June 12

Democracy Day in Nigeria is observed annually on June 12, following a 2019 amendment to the Public Holiday Act signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari. This day honours the annulled 1993 general elections—widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest—and celebrates the country’s return to democratic rule.

Although the government has not yet made an official announcement, Thursday, June 12, 2025, is expected to be observed as a public holiday, in line with tradition.

These two holidays, rooted in religious reverence and democratic pride, offer Nigerians moments for both solemn reflection and national celebration. While we await formal declarations from the federal government, citizens can begin to plan accordingly for what promises to be a meaningful month.