- Safiu Kehinde
The Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Finance, Rep. Sa’idu Abdullahi (APC-Niger) has urged the Federal Government to recognise and make the first day of the Islamic calendar (1st Muharram) a public holiday.
Abdullahi made the plea in a statement issued on Thursday while felicitating with Muslim faithful in Nigeria and beyond on the commencement of the Islamic New Year, (1447 AH).
The lawmaker, who represents Bida/Gbako/Katcha federal constituency of Niger, in the House of Representatives, hailed the governors of Niger, Kebbi, Sokoto, Borno, Kano, Katsina, Osun and Oyo States for declaring a public holiday in recognition of its spiritual importance.
He urged the federal government to take a cue from the states and replicate the gesture at the national level.
“In a multi-religious nation like ours, acknowledging dates of religious significance for all major faith fosters unity, strengthens mutual respect, and reinforces a sense of belonging among citizens.
“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,” he said.
Abdullahi called on Nigerians, especially Muslim, to use the Islamic New Year 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 would uphold Nigeria’s rich religious and cultural diversity.