The House of Representatives member representing Bida/Gbako/Katcha federal constituency of Niger state, Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi, has called on the federal government to recognise and make the first day of Muharram, the first day of the Islamic Calendar, a public holiday.
Abdullahi, the deputy chairman of the House Committee on Finance, made the call in a message celebrating Muslims across Nigeria and beyond on the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1447 AH.
He lauded the governors of Niger, Borno, Kano, Katsina, Osun, Oyo, and Sokoto for always declaring the 1st of Muharram a public holiday in their states in recognition of its spiritual importance.
The lawmaker admonished the federal government to emulate these states’ gestures at the national level.
He said: “In a multi-religious nation, acknowledging dates of religious significance for all major faiths fosters unity, strengthens mutual respect, and reinforces a sense of belonging among citizens”.
According to Abdullahi, the celebration of the Islamic New Year is a time for spiritual renewal, reflection, and recommitment to the noble values of sacrifice, perseverance, and piety demonstrated by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his companions during the Hijrah.
He called on Nigerians to use the Islamic New Year as an opportunity to pray for peace, demonstrate compassion, and unite around the collective goal of national development.
The lawmaker reiterated his commitment to promoting inclusive policies and legislative actions that uphold Nigeria’s rich religious and cultural diversity.
