Borno State Government declares Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a public holiday to mark the Islamic New Year 1448 AH. Multiple reports say the holiday is approved by Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, following a state government statement released over the weekend by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar. The day is observed as the first day of the Hijri calendar, corresponding to 1 Muharram (after Hijra), which follows a lunar system.
The government says the holiday is meant to give residents time to commemorate the occasion and reflect on values associated with the start of the new Islamic year. Officials urge citizens to rededicate themselves to peaceful coexistence, unity, tolerance, justice, and service to humanity, and to pray for peace and stability. Residents are also encouraged to promote a peaceful, pluralistic, and democratic Nigeria, while embracing values that strengthen national unity and the country’s image internationally.
The declaration applies across Borno State, with government offices, schools, and public institutions expected to observe the holiday, as Islamic New Year dates shift each year compared with the Gregorian calendar.
