Yobe declares Tuesday public holiday for Islamic New Year

The Yobe State Government in Nigeria has declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1448 AH. The announcement, approved by Governor Mai Mala Buni, underscores the state's recognition of the Islamic calendar's importance and its established practice of observing the Hijrah year.

A circular issued by the Head of Service, Abdullahi Shehu, stated that the holiday is designed to allow workers and residents across the state to observe the first day of Muharram. This day signifies the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar, which is followed by Muslims globally.

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His Excellency Mai Mala Buni has graciously approved the declaration of Tuesday, 16th June, 2026 (1st Muharram, 1448AH), as a public holiday across the state to commemorate the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Governor Buni's approval highlights the government's commitment to acknowledging significant religious observances. The circular mandates that government offices, institutions, and public establishments observe the holiday, with normal official activities scheduled to resume on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

Beyond the observance, the state government encouraged residents to use the occasion for reflection and prayer, seeking peace, stability, and prosperity as the new Islamic year commences. The government extended wishes for a peaceful, prosperous, and blessed Islamic New Year to all Muslim faithful and residents. The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijrah, commemorates the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina.

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The government wishes all Muslim faithful and residents a peaceful, prosperous, and blessed Islamic New Year.