The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared today, July 19, 2023, a public holiday to mark the first day of Muharram 1445H (Islamic New Year), which is equivalent to the 29th of Dhul hijja, 1444 AH.
The monarch disclosed this in a statement, yesterday, signed by Secretary of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council Sokoto, Yahaya Muhammad Boyi.
The statement said the Sultanate Council announced the decision, owing to lack of positive reports on sighting of the crescent in Nigeria.
Similarly, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared today as public holiday in the state in commemoration of this year’s Hijrah 1445.
The announcement was made in a circular signed by Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi.
Makinde, while congratulating the Muslim faithful on the commencement of the New Year, also enjoined them to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity and sustainability of Nigeria.
Also, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, declared today public holiday in the state in commemoration of Hijrah 1445 AH Islamic New Year for all Muslims.
Meanwhile, the governor will today inaugurate and swear in the newly-appointed commissioners in the state.
Spokesperson to the governor, Olawale Rasheed, said the event would hold at the Local Government Service Commission Building, Government Secretariat, Osogbo, at 10:00 a.m.
