By Gideon Maxwell
June 15, 2026
The Oyo State Government has declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a work free day to commemorate the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1448AH, reaffirming its recognition of the significance of the occasion for Muslims across the state.
The declaration was announced on Monday through a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who said the decision reflects the government’s respect and solidarity with the Muslim community as it begins a new Islamic calendar year.
According to the government, Hijrah marks the historic migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD, an event regarded as one of the most significant milestones in Islamic history and the foundation of the Islamic lunar calendar.
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The state urged residents to use the occasion as a period of reflection, prayer and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence. Authorities also called on citizens to pray for lasting peace, unity and prosperity in Oyo State and Nigeria.
Governor Seyi Makinde extended his congratulations to the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State and across the country on witnessing Hijrah 1448AH, expressing hope that they would celebrate many more Islamic New Years in good health and peace.
The announcement places Oyo among several states that have declared June 16 a public holiday to mark the beginning of the new Islamic year, with governments encouraging citizens to embrace the values of sacrifice, tolerance, unity and mutual respect that the Hijrah symbolises.
