Federal Lawmaker Urges FG to Recognize 1st Muharram as National Holiday

Saidu Musa Abdullahi, a member of the House of Representatives, has appealed to the Nigerian Federal Government to formally declare the first day of Muharram—recognized as the beginning of the Islamic calendar year—a national public holiday.

Representing the Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency in Niger State, Abdullahi, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, made this call in a statement released on Thursday.

He emphasized that various state governments, including those of Niger, Borno, Kano, Katsina, Osun, Oyo, and Sokoto, already observe 1st Muharram as a public holiday. Abdullahi therefore urged the Federal Government to adopt the same practice in recognition of the importance of the Islamic New Year.

“In a multi-religious nation such as Nigeria, recognizing key religious observances from all faiths fosters national unity and inclusive governance,” the lawmaker stated.

He described the Islamic New Year not just as a date of religious relevance but as a time for self-reflection, renewal of spiritual dedication, and communal harmony. Abdullahi also pointed out that the significance of Hijrah—the Islamic migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina—extends beyond religious teachings, highlighting universal values such as endurance, sacrifice, and transformation.

He further encouraged citizens to mark the occasion by offering prayers for national peace, showing empathy toward others, and staying committed to building a stronger, united Nigeria.