By Musa Baba Adamu
The Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Member representing Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency, Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi has called on the Federal Government to recognize and make the first day of Muharram a public holiday.
Muharram is the first day of the Islamic Calendar.
He made the call in a statement yesterday, signed by his Senior Legislative Aide, Dodo Mustapha Alhaji congratulating Muslims across Nigeria and beyond on the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1447 AH.
Rep. Abdullahi commended Governors of Niger, Borno, Kano, Katsina, Osun, Oyo, and Sokoto who have always declared the 1st of Muharram a public holiday in their states in recognition of its spiritual importance.
The lawmaker therefore advises the Federal Government to take a cue from these states and replicate the gesture at the national level.
He said, “In a multi-religious nation, acknowledging dates of religious significance for all major faiths fosters unity, strengthens mutual respect, and reinforces a sense of belonging among citizens”.
According to him, 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 during the Hijrah.
He called on Nigerians to use the Islamic New Year as an opportunity to pray for peace, demonstrate compassion, and unite around the collective goal of national development.
The Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Finance reiterated his commitment to promoting inclusive policies and legislative actions that uphold Nigeria’s rich religious and cultural diversity.
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