The Borno State Government has declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a public holiday to mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year, 1448 AH, with Governor Babagana Umara Zulum urging residents to embrace peace, unity and service to humanity.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, who said the holiday would commemorate the first day of Muharram, the opening month of the Islamic calendar.
The Islamic year 1448 AH (Anno Hegirae) follows the lunar calendar, which is about 11 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. Consequently, the current Hijri year overlaps parts of 2026 and 2027.
According to the statement, Governor Zulum declared Tuesday, June 16, equivalent to the first day of Muharram 1448 AH, as a public holiday to allow citizens to reflect on the significance of the new Islamic year.
“All citizens are therefore enjoined to be faithful and reflect on this important date and rededicate themselves to peaceful coexistence and service to humanity and the development of our dear state, the statement said.
Tar further urged residents to uphold the values of unity, solidarity, tolerance, justice, mercy and multiculturalism, describing them as essential ingredients for sustaining harmony and promoting the unity of mankind.
He emphasized that the government and people of Borno State remain committed to Nigeria’s unity, prosperity and positive image among the comity of nations.
Governor Zulum also called on communities and faith groups across the state to pray for peace and continue to live together in harmony, stressing the importance of preserving Nigeria’s plural democratic system.
