The Osun State Government has declared Wednesday, June 17, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Hijira 1448AH, the beginning of the Islamic New Year.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the state’s Commissioner for Home Affairs, Rasheed Aderibigbe, on Tuesday.
According to the commissioner, the holiday is aimed at giving Muslim faithful across the state the opportunity to celebrate the commencement of the new Islamic calendar year.
“Osun State Government is pleased to announce that Wednesday, 17th June 2026, will be observed as a Public Holiday to commemorate Hijira 1448AH,” the statement said.
Aderibigbe extended the state government’s goodwill to Muslims, praying for peace, prosperity, and unity as they mark the important religious occasion.
The government also urged residents to embrace harmony and participate in the celebrations in a manner that promotes peaceful coexistence and strengthens community bonds.
Officials encouraged citizens to avoid actions capable of creating division and instead use the occasion to foster unity and togetherness across the state.
Hijira, also known as the Islamic New Year, marks the beginning of a new lunar calendar and commemorates the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Mecca to Medina.
The Islamic year 1448 AH officially began on June 16, 2026, following the sighting of the Muharram crescent moon and is expected to run until around June 5, 2027 on the Gregorian calendar.
The public holiday means government offices, public institutions, and many businesses across Osun State are expected to remain closed on Wednesday in observance of the celebration.
Source: Osun State Government
