The Katsina State Government has declared Friday a public holiday in celebration of the Islamic New Year, 1447 AH.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Thursday by the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Faskari. According to the statement, Governor Dikko Umar Radda extended his warm wishes to Muslims in Katsina and across Nigeria as they mark the beginning of the new Islamic calendar.
The governor said the holiday would allow civil servants and residents of the state to observe the Islamic New Year and reflect on its spiritual significance.
“This day is not only for celebration but also for sober reflection and prayer for the peace, progress, and unity of our dear state and the nation,” the statement read.
Governor Radda urged citizens to continue living harmoniously and to uphold peace, which he described as the bedrock of meaningful development.
“No society can thrive without peace. I urge our people to sustain the peaceful coexistence Katsina is known for,” he said.
He also used the opportunity to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to implementing projects that directly impact the lives of the people, especially in rural communities.
“As we celebrate, I want to remind our farmers, particularly those who benefited from government support in the form of fertilizers, tractors, and other farm inputs, to use them wisely for improved food production this rainy season,” Radda advised.
The governor further cautioned farmers against encroaching on designated cattle routes, forest reserves, and grazing areas, urging them to respect land regulations to avoid communal disputes.
Governor Radda concluded by praying for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity for Katsina State and Nigeria as a whole.
The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijrah, marks the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina and is observed by Muslims worldwide.
