The deputy chairman of the House Committee on Finance, Sa’idu Abdullahi (APC-Niger), has urged President Bola Tinubu’s government to recognise and declare the first day of the Islamic calendar (1st Muharram) a public holiday.

In a statement on Thursday, Abdullahi felicitated the Muslim faithful in Nigeria and beyond on the commencement of the Islamic New Year (1447 AH).

Mr Abdullahi, who represents the Bida/Gbako/Katcha federal constituency of Niger in the House of Representatives, commended the governors of Niger, Kebbi, Sokoto, Borno, Kano, Katsina, Osun and Oyo for declaring a public holiday in recognition of its spiritual importance.

The lawmaker urged the federal government to take a cue from the states and replicate the gesture at the national level.

“In a multi-religious nation like ours, acknowledging dates of religious significance for all major faiths fosters unity, strengthens mutual respect, and reinforces a sense of belonging among citizens.

“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,” he said.

Mr Abdullahi called on Nigerians, especially Muslims, 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 lawmaker reiterated his commitment to promoting inclusive policies and legislative actions that would uphold Nigeria’s rich religious and cultural diversity.

(NAN)