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.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde declared Tuesday a work-free day and congratulated the Muslim Ummah on witnessing the new Islamic year.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
In Kano State, Governor Abba Yusuf approved a public holiday to mark the commencement of the Islamic New Year
