President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism and uphold the principles of responsible citizenship as Muslims in Nigeria and around the world begin the Islamic New Year, 1 Muharram 1448AH.
In a statement released on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President congratulated the Muslim community on the commencement of the new Hijri year, which falls on June 16, 2026.
Tinubu noted that the Islamic New Year serves as a period for reflection on the significance of the Hijrah, the historic migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Madina, which marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
The President emphasized that the values associated with the Hijrah, including sacrifice, perseverance, renewal and trust in Allah’s divine will, remain essential in the pursuit of a peaceful, fair and prosperous Nigeria.
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.
“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 statement said.
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The statement further urged Nigerians to embrace the ideals associated with the new Islamic year.
“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.
He urges acts of kindness, tolerance, honesty, and devotion to duty as necessary contributions to national unity, security, and development.”
Tinubu also offered prayers for the country’s continued progress and well-being in the year ahead.
“The President prays that the new Islamic year brings blessings, peace and prosperity to every household, and that Allah continues to guide our nation on the path of progress,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, had on Monday announced that Tuesday, June 16, would be observed as the first day of Muharram 1448AH in Nigeria.