Prominent leaders in Oyo State have extended warm greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and beyond as they mark the commencement of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1447 AH.
Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, in a statement issued on Friday, congratulated Muslim faithful and called on them to reflect on the significance of the Hijrah—the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Madinah—as a symbol of faith, sacrifice, and devotion. He urged the Muslim Ummah to continue in their good deeds and prayers for the state and the nation.
Makinde emphasized the importance of religious harmony and peaceful coexistence in Oyo State, appreciating the consistent support of the Muslim community since he assumed office in 2019.
“As the Hijrah commemorates a significant turning point in Islamic history, I urge all Muslims to pray for Oyo State, Nigeria, and our leaders,” the governor said. “The next 23 months are crucial as we work to finish strong and complete legacy projects that will benefit generations to come.”
He encouraged residents to support his administration’s “Legacy Compact” initiative aimed at evaluating and delivering performance across key sectors.
In a similar message, Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC–Oyo South) also congratulated Muslims on the Islamic New Year. Through a statement from his media office, Alli described the occasion as one of “deep reflection, spiritual renewal, and recommitment to the values of peace, justice, and communal progress.”
He highlighted the lessons of the Prophet’s migration as a reminder of courage, sacrifice, and unshakable faith, encouraging Muslims to use the new year to promote love, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
“Nigeria is facing significant challenges, and this is a time for collective effort and fervent prayers for unity, peace, and development,” he said.
Senator Alli reaffirmed his commitment to championing initiatives that enhance education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic opportunities, especially for the underprivileged.
Federal Commissioner at the Federal Character Commission and former Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Professor Adeniyi Olowofela, also extended his felicitations. In a goodwill message, he praised the resilience of the Muslim Ummah and urged them to continue fostering unity and moral uprightness in society.
The trio of leaders expressed hope that the new Islamic year would usher in peace, progress, and divine blessings for all Nigerians.
