The Borno State Government has declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a public holiday to mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year, 1448 AH.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, on Sunday.
According to the statement, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum approved the holiday to allow residents observe the first day of Muharram, which marks the start of the new Islamic calendar year.
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle and is shorter than the Gregorian calendar by about 11 to 12 days. As a result, the 1448 AH calendar year falls across parts of 2026 and 2027.
The state government urged residents to use the occasion to reflect on the importance of peace, unity and service to society.
Citizens were encouraged to renew their commitment to peaceful living, community development and the progress of Borno State.
Tar also called on residents to promote values such as tolerance, justice, mercy, solidarity and mutual respect.
He said these qualities are necessary for strengthening harmony among people from different backgrounds and maintaining peaceful coexistence.
The commissioner stated that the government and people of Borno remain dedicated to the unity, growth and stability of Nigeria.
He added that the state remains committed to supporting national development and contributing positively to the country’s image among other nations.
Governor Zulum also appealed to residents to pray for lasting peace and democratic stability in the country.
He urged communities and religious groups across the state to continue living together in understanding and cooperation as the new Islamic year begins.
