The Kwara State Government has announced a public holiday for Tuesday in celebration of the Islamic New Year 1448. The declaration allows Muslims across the state to observe the beginning of the new Islamic calendar year and reflect on the values associated with the historic Hijrah.
The Kwara State Government has declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate the Islamic New Year 1448, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the Islamic lunar calendar.
The announcement was made on Monday through a statement issued by the Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju.
According to the state government, Tuesday will also mark the first day of Muharram 1448, the opening month of the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims around the world.
The declaration is expected to give Muslim faithful across the state an opportunity to participate in religious activities and reflect on the significance of the Islamic New Year, one of the most important events in the Muslim calendar.
In the statement, the government encouraged residents to use the occasion to embrace the values represented by the Hijrah, the historic migration of Prophet Muhammad from Makkah to Madinah. The event is widely regarded as a symbol of faith, perseverance, sacrifice, and renewal.
“Hijrah (the migration of the Holy Prophet Muhammad) reminds the world of the evergreen value of tolerance, common humanity, and the right of every person to their legitimate aspirations, either in matters of faith or mundane matters as long as they do not hurt others,” the statement said.
The government noted that the lessons of the Hijrah remain relevant in today’s society, especially in promoting peaceful coexistence, understanding, and mutual respect among people of different backgrounds.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq also extended his goodwill message to residents as they celebrate the Islamic New Year. He prayed for continued peace, unity, and prosperity across the state and the country.
“As we commemorate the new Hijrah Year, His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, prays that God bless every home, restore peace to our land, and give us the strength to do right by every person,” the statement added.
The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle for Muslims and serves as a period of reflection on moral conduct, spiritual growth, and community development.
Unlike festive celebrations associated with some religious occasions, the day is often observed through prayers, reflection, and renewed commitment to faith.
The public holiday declaration places Kwara among states recognizing the significance of the Islamic New Year and highlights the importance of religious harmony and inclusiveness in the country’s diverse society.
As Muslims welcome Muharram 1448, many are expected to use the period to seek spiritual renewal while reflecting on the enduring lessons of sacrifice, resilience, and unity that define the Hijrah.
