The Osun State Government has declared Wednesday, June 17, a public holiday to mark the Islamic New Year, Hijira 1448AH.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Rasheed Aderibigbe.

Aderibigbe said the holiday was to commemorate the beginning of the Islamic New Year and extended the government’s greetings to Muslims across the state.

He expressed hope that the occasion would bring peace, prosperity and unity to Osun State.

The government also urged residents to shun rancour and embrace the celebrations in a spirit of harmony, unity and togetherness.

The Islamic year 1448AH began on Tuesday, June 16, following the sighting of the Muharram crescent moon. It is expected to run until approximately June 5, 2027, on the Gregorian calendar.