Nigeria
Nigeria public holidays and festivals: dates and closures
Plan around Nigeria's public holidays if you need a day off: banks, schools and many offices close, and transport runs on reduced schedules. For festivals like the Calabar Carnival (early December) or Osun-Osogbo (August), book accommodation and flights months ahead. Islamic holiday dates shift each year.
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GuideNigeria
Key facts
- New Year's Day
- 1 Jan
- Good Fridaycheck
- 17 Apr 2026
- Easter Mondaycheck
- 20 Apr 2026
- Workers' Day
- 1 May
- Democracy Day
- 29 May
- Eid al-Fitrcheck
- ~10 Jun 2026
- Eid al-Adhacheck
- ~20 Jul 2026
- Independence Day
- 1 Oct
- Christmas Day
- 25 Dec
- Boxing Day
- 26 Dec
Quick answer
If you need a guaranteed day off, schedule travel around the listed public holidays; most offices, schools and many private services shut, and some transport runs on a holiday timetable.
2026 public holidays in Nigeria
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | 1 Jan | Fixed |
| Good Friday | 17 Apr | Christian holiday, check exact date |
| Easter Monday | 20 Apr | Christian holiday, check exact date |
| Workers' Day | 1 May | Fixed |
| Democracy Day | 29 May | Fixed |
| Eid al-Fitr | 10 Jun (approx) | Lunar, varies ±1 day |
| Eid al-Adha | 20 Jul (approx) | Lunar, varies ±1 day |
| Independence Day | 1 Oct | Fixed |
| Christmas Day | 25 Dec | Fixed |
| Boxing Day | 26 Dec | Fixed |
Islamic dates shift each year; confirm a few days before travel.
What typically closes on public holidays
Government offices, banks, post offices and most schools are closed. Many private shops stay open, especially in major markets, but may have reduced hours. Public transport (buses, trains) often runs on a holiday schedule, with fewer departures. Tourist attractions such as museums and parks usually remain open, but check individual sites.
Planning tips
Book accommodation and inter-city flights well in advance, as demand spikes around holidays.
If you travel on a holiday, allow extra time for airport security and road traffic, especially in Lagos and Abuja.
For festivals like the Calabar Carnival (early December), expect crowds and higher prices; book early.
Questions people ask
What are the public holidays in Nigeria?
Nigeria observes New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Workers' Day, Democracy Day, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Independence Day, Christmas and Boxing Day. Dates for the Islamic holidays shift each year.
Which festivals are worth planning a trip around in Nigeria?
The Calabar Carnival in early December is the biggest; the Osun-Osogbo Festival in August draws many visitors. Both require early booking for accommodation.
What closes on public holidays in Nigeria?
Government offices, banks, post offices and schools close. Many private shops stay open but may shorten hours; transport runs on reduced schedules.
Do airlines operate on Nigerian public holidays?
Domestic airlines keep regular service, but flights can be fuller and slightly more expensive. Arrive at the airport earlier to allow for longer queues.
Should I travel on Eid holidays?
Travel is possible, but expect higher demand for transport and accommodation, and many businesses will be closed. Plan ahead and confirm dates.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
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