Tinubu felicitates Muslims on Islamic New Year, urges patriotism

President Bola Tinubu has conveyed greetings to Muslims in Nigeria and worldwide on the occasion of the Islamic New Year, 1st Muharram 1448AH. He encouraged citizens to adopt patriotism and exemplary citizenship as they mark the beginning of the Hijri year, which coincides with June 16, 2026.

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As Muslims mark the beginning of a new Hijri year, President Tinubu reflects on the virtues of the Hijrah, the migration from Mecca to Madina that marks the commencement of the Hijri calendar.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President reflected on the significance of the Hijrah, Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina. Tinubu highlighted that the lessons derived from this event, sacrifice, renewal, patience, and faith, remain crucial for building a peaceful, just, and prosperous nation.

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He said the lessons, which include sacrifice, renewal, patience, and faith in Allah’s divine plan, remain central to building a peaceful, just, and prosperous nation.

The President urged all Nigerians, especially Muslims, to embody the spirit of the new year by recommitting to the principles of good citizenship. He called for acts of kindness, tolerance, honesty, and dedication to duty as essential contributions to national unity, security, and development.

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The President admonishes all Nigerians, particularly the Muslim faithful, to embrace the spirit of the new year by rededicating themselves to the ideals of good citizenship.

Tinubu also offered prayers for peace, prosperity, and divine guidance for Nigeria throughout the new Islamic year. The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, had previously declared Tuesday, June 16, as the first day of Muharram 1448AH in Nigeria.

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He urges acts of kindness, tolerance, honesty, and devotion to duty as necessary contributions to national unity, security, and development.