As Muslim faithful across the world begin a new Islamic calendar year, Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi has declared Monday a public holiday to mark the Islamic New Year, 1438 AH.
Governor Ajimobi made the declaration at the 1438 Hijrah Grand Rally organised by the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations, which held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
According to the hijrah calendar, October 3 is the lunar month of Muharram, which is the first month of the Islamic calendar.
The Islamic year calendar had started counting in 622 AD after the emigration of Prophet Muhammed from Mecca to Medina in Saudi-Arabia.
According to the governor, Hijrah, the beginning of the New Year in the Islamic calendar, provided another opportunity for Muslims worldwide to reflect on their past and channel a new way of life.
“Hijrah symbolizes a new beginning. It is the state of improving on the past into a new status. Hijrah begun when the holy Prophet Muhammed migrated from Mecca to Medina,” he said.
The governor enjoined Muslims to exhibit good character towards their neighbours, saying it was the only way their prayers could be answered by God.
Ajimobi also urged parents to give their wards proper upbringing and mentoring, adding that such was the only way to prepare them for greater heights in life.
