The administration of Governor Babagana Zulum has declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, a public holiday across Borno State in observance of the Islamic New Year, marking the beginning of Hijri 1448 AH.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Sunday, June 14, by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar.
He encouraged residents of the APC-governed state to use the occasion as an opportunity to renew their commitment to peaceful living, humanitarian service, and the overall progress of society.
Borno declares Tuesday public holiday
The statement read, according to The Punch: “This is to inform the general public that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, mni, FNSE, has declared Tuesday, 1st Day of Muharram 1448 After Hijri (AH), which is equivalent to Tuesday, 16th June 2026, as a Public Holiday to commemorate the first day of the Islamic Calendar Year 1448 (AH).
“All citizens are therefore enjoined to be faithful and reflect on this important date and rededicate themselves to peaceful coexistence and service to humanity and development of our dear state in particular.”
2026 Hijri: Borno urges peace
Tar further called on residents to uphold values that promote harmony within society, including unity, solidarity, tolerance, justice, mercy, togetherness, and respect for cultural diversity.
According to him, these principles remain vital to fostering peaceful coexistence among people from different backgrounds and strengthening human unity.
Speaking further, Tar reiterated the state’s dedication to national cohesion and development.
He stated, according to News Central, that: “The government and good people of Borno are committed to the unity, prosperity and existence of Nigeria, and to projecting Nigeria’s good image among the comity of nations in a globalised universe.”
The commissioner also conveyed Governor Zulum’s appeal to citizens to continue praying for peace and stability within the country.
He stressed the importance of maintaining Nigeria’s democratic ideals and urged communities and religious groups across the state to embrace mutual understanding, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence.
