Hijrah 1447AH: Nigerian Governors Declare Friday Public Holiday
By: Olufemi Orunsola
In a move to grant Islamic faithfuls an opportunity to observe the beginning of the new Islamic year, Hijrah 1447AH, Oyo State governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, and Osun his Osun State counterpart, Governor Ademola Adeleke have declared Friday, June 27, 2025, a work-free day across the two South West states.
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA(OTN) News reports that the declaration was contained in a similar but separate announcements on Thursday.
In Oyo state, the announcement was contained in a circular issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo.
The governor said the day had been set aside to allow Muslims and residents of the state to celebrate the Islamic New Year and reflect on its spiritual significance.
Governor Makinde also urged all residents to use the occasion to pray for continued peace, unity, and prosperity in Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
“The Governor enjoins all and sundry to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity, and prosperity of the state in particular, and the country in general,” the statement read.
The state government said the work-free day applies to all public offices and institutions across the state.
In Osun State, a statement issued by the Osun State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Rasheed Aderigbigbe, on Thursday stated that the public holiday was intended to allow Muslims to celebrate the day with their families.
Additionally, Governor Adeleke urged Muslims to draw inspiration from the Prophet’s migration as a call to strengthen their faith, promote peace, and uphold justice in all aspects of life.
In a Hijrah message issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, he described the Hijrah as a moment of deep reflection, spiritual renewal, and a powerful symbol of sacrifice, perseverance, and divine guidance.
OTN News recalls that some groups have called on the federal government to officially recognize and declare a public holiday across the country to enable Muslim umah observe the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
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