Islamic year: States declare public holiday

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Several state governments across Nigeria have declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate the beginning of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1448AH, urging residents to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity and national development.

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In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde declared Tuesday a work-free day and congratulated the Muslim Ummah on witnessing the new Islamic year.

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In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the governor urged Muslims to pray for the peace, unity and prosperity of Oyo State and Nigeria.

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Makinde also called on residents to remain security-conscious during the celebrations and report suspicious activities to security agencies through the state’s emergency number, 615.

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In another statement through the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, the government said the holiday was in recognition of the significance of the Hijrah, which marks the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Makkah to Madinah in 622 AD.

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“The Hijrah is a time for reflection, prayer and community spirit. Let us come together on this day to pray for peace, unity and prosperity in our state and our nation,” Oyelade said.

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In Kano State, Governor Abba Yusuf approved a public holiday to mark the commencement of the Islamic New Year.

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A circular issued by the Office of the Head of Civil Service stated that the holiday was granted in recognition of the significance of the Islamic calendar and Kano’s longstanding tradition of observing the beginning of the Hijrah year.

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The government urged civil servants and residents to use the occasion for sober reflection and prayers for continued peace, stability and prosperity in Kano State and Nigeria.

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Kwara State Government also declared Tuesday a public holiday in commemoration of the 1448AH Hijrah New Year.

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In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, the government urged Muslims to reflect on the significance of the month, noting that the Hijrah symbolises tolerance, common humanity and the right of every individual to pursue legitimate aspirations without infringing on the rights of others.

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Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq prayed for peace, progress and divine blessings for the state and the country.

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In Katsina State, Governor Dikko Radda declared Tuesday a work-free day to mark the first day of Muharram 1448AH.

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A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Salisu Zango, said the governor encouraged residents to use the period for reflection and prayers for the growth, peace and prosperity of Katsina State and Nigeria.

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The Kebbi State Government also announced a one-day public holiday to enable residents and civil servants to celebrate the commencement of the Islamic New Year.

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According to a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary, Establishment, Hajiya Hafsat Ibrahim Tune, Governor Nasir Idris approved the holiday and urged residents to reflect on the values of sacrifice, tolerance and devotion associated with the Hijrah.

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Government offices across the state are expected to resume normal activities on Wednesday, June 17.

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Likewise, Yobe State Government declared Tuesday a public holiday following the approval of Governor Mai Mala Buni.

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A circular signed by the Head of Service, Abdullahi Shehu, said the holiday would allow workers and residents to observe the beginning of the Islamic calendar year.

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The government urged residents to offer prayers for peace, stability and prosperity and wished Muslims a blessed and prosperous New Year.

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The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijrah, commemorates the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Makkah to Madinah and marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar observed by Muslims worldwide.

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