Nigerian gov declares public holiday for celebration of Hijrah 2020

The Governor of Osun State in the southwestern Nigeria, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, has declared August 20 as a public holiday for Hijrah, the Muslims’ new year celebration.

This was disclosed in a press statement on Wednesday August 19, 2020, by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Funke Egbemode.

“The State Government of Osun wishes to inform the public that Thursday, August 20, 2020, shall be a work-free day across the State,” the statement reads.

It adds the holiday is to commemorate the beginning of a new Islamic year – 1442 AH, and afford the Muslim Community in the State the opportunity to celebrate this year’s Hijrah.

“The State Government wishes to emphasize that the holiday is no approval for large gatherings or unauthorized meetings under any guise.

“Residents are enjoined to observe the safety guidelines against COVID-19 as outlined by the government and the NCDC,” it adds.

The commissioner therefore stated that workers in the state are expected to resume work on Friday August 21, 2020.