The Kebbi State Government has declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a public holiday to enable residents across the state, particularly civil servants, to celebrate the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1448 AH.
The announcement was made on Monday through a statement issued in Birnin Kebbi by the Permanent Secretary, Establishment, Hajiya Hafsat Tune, following the approval of the state governor, Dr. Nasir Idris.
According to the statement, government offices throughout the state will remain closed for official business on Tuesday, while normal governmental activities are expected to resume on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
The government explained that the decision was taken to provide an opportunity for workers in the public sector and other residents to fully participate in activities marking the beginning of the new Islamic calendar year, a significant occasion for Muslims around the world.
“This is to inform the general public and civil servants that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, has approved the declaration of Tuesday, June 16, 2026, as a work-free day,” the statement partly read.
The government noted that the holiday underscores its commitment to recognizing important religious events and promoting the spiritual well-being of citizens. It added that the work-free day would allow Muslims in the state to observe prayers, engage in reflection, and participate in various religious activities associated with the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.
The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of a new lunar year in the Islamic calendar. The calendar dates back to the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Makkah to Madinah, an event known as the Hijrah, which serves as the starting point of the Islamic era.
For many Muslims, the occasion is a time of thanksgiving, spiritual renewal, and reflection on the values of faith, sacrifice, peace, and unity. Religious scholars often use the period to encourage believers to strengthen their relationship with God and renew their commitment to righteous living.
The declaration of the public holiday has been welcomed by many residents, particularly civil servants, who see it as an opportunity to spend time with their families and participate in religious gatherings without the pressure of official duties.
Observers note that Kebbi State, with its predominantly Muslim population, has traditionally accorded significance to major Islamic events, often supporting activities aimed at promoting religious harmony and moral values within society.
Governor Idris, who has consistently emphasized the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence among the people of the state, urged residents to use the occasion to pray for continued peace, security, and development in Kebbi and Nigeria as a whole.
The state government also encouraged citizens to celebrate responsibly and uphold the principles of tolerance, mutual respect, and community service that are central to Islamic teachings.
As preparations continue for the observance of the Islamic New Year, residents across Kebbi are expected to gather in mosques and community centres for special prayers, sermons, and other activities designed to usher in the year 1448 AH.
With the declaration now in effect, government workers and other public servants will enjoy a one-day break from official duties before returning to work on Wednesday, when normal administrative and public service operations will resume across the state.
