Islamic New Year Celebrations Across Nigeria
The declarations of public holidays by various state governments will enable Muslims to celebrate and reflect on the spiritual significance of the new Islamic Year, while also promoting social justice, religious freedom, and community development.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared Friday, June 27, 2025, as a public holiday to mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year, while other states like Katsina and Kebbi have also made similar declarations to commemorate the occasion.
The holiday is aimed at enabling Muslims to celebrate and reflect on the spiritual significance of the new Islamic Year 1447AH. In Oyo State, the governor has urged residents to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity, and progress in the state and the country at large. Similarly, in Katsina and Kebbi states, the governments have declared a work-free day to allow civil servants and residents to mark the occasion.
Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State congratulated Muslims on witnessing the new Islamic Calendar and called for peace and harmony, while also urging farmers to use fertilizers and tractors judiciously. In Osun State, Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke extended warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah, describing Hijrah as a moment of deep reflection, spiritual renewal, and a powerful symbol of sacrifice, perseverance, and divine guidance.
The Islamic New Year celebrations across Nigeria are a testament to the country's diverse cultural and religious heritage. As Muslims mark this significant occasion, they are urged to recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and harmonious society, while also promoting peace, unity, and progress in their respective states and the country at large.