All Schools, Govt Offices, Banks to Close for 24 Hours as FG Announces Eid-ul-Mawlid Public Holiday
- The Nigerian federal government has declared Friday, September 5, a public holiday to celebrate Eid-ul-Mawlid, the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
- The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration and urged Muslims to follow the prophet's virtues of peace
- The holiday is a time for Muslims to reflect on Prophet Muhammad's life and teachings, encouraging them to engage in special prayers
FCT, Abuja - The federal government has announced Friday, September 5, to be public holiday in Nigeria.
Legit.ng reported that the move was in honour of the celebration of the Eid-ul-Mawlid, the birthday of the Holy Prophet Mohammed (SAW).
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This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Ministry of Interior's permanent secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, cited by Legit.ng, in Abuja on Tuesday, September 2.
As a result of this, all banks, schools, government offices, among other,, will shut down operations in commemoration of Eid-ul-Mawlid.
Tunji-Ojo declares a public holiday
The statement further explained that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the federal government. The minister then extended his warm greetings to Nigerian Muslims and the world at large.
Tunji-Ojo then called on Muslims to imbibe the virtues of the prophet, which he noted as peace, love, humility, tolerance and compassion.
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He stressed the importance of the values as being crucial in building a progressive and united Nigeria.
He also called on Nigerians across faiths to pray for peace, stability and security in the country during the period, while urging them to support the government in its efforts for sustainable development and national harmony.
The minister then called on Nigerians to remain security-conscious, law-abiding, and support the policies of the government in enhancing the people's well-being. He then wishes Muslims in the country a joyous and peaceful Eid al-Mawlid celebration.
What is Eid-ul-Maulud?
Eid-ul-Maulud is an Islamic holiday celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, observed yearly on the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims commemorate this day by reflecting on the Prophet's life and teachings, engaging in spiritual observances like special prayers, and participating in community events and processions.
The celebration encourages Muslims to emulate the Prophet's exemplary character, fostering love, patience, and tolerance, while also promoting acts of charity and unity within the community.
Eid-el-Maulud in Kaduna
Eid-el-Maulud is usually celebrated in the Zazzau Emirate in Kaduna state with a spectacular durbar.
The Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, displays the culture and tradition of the emirate with a colourful durbar procession.
Kebbi governor declares hijrah holiday
Legit.ng earlier reported that Kebbi state governor Nasir Idris declared Friday, August 30, 2024, as a public holiday for civil servants in the state.
Governor Idris announced the development in a statement through the commissioner for establishment, pension and training, Auwal Manu-Dogondaji.
According to Manu-Dogondaji, the development was to allow the people of the state to prepare for the local government election scheduled for Saturday, August 31.
Source: Legit.ng
