26 June, 2025
As Muslims across Nigeria ushered in the Islamic New Year, prominent leaders in Kwara State have called for deeper spiritual reflection, renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, and compassion toward one another.
The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the arrival of 1st Muharram, 1447 AH, describing it as a significant moment that commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina to escape persecution and establish a just and inclusive society.
“Hijrah represents not just a journey but the foundation of a peaceful and united Muslim community,” the Emir said in a statement by his spokesperson, Dr. AbdulAzeez Arowona. “It’s a call to extend love and forgiveness to others and show kindness to the less privileged.”
The monarch praised the National Hijrah Islamic Organization under Prof. Yusuf ‘Lanre Badmos for its efforts in sustaining the annual celebration in Kwara, and commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for declaring Thursday a public holiday to mark the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
Echoing similar sentiments, Governor AbdulRazaq urged Muslims to use the Hijrah season to embrace the values of selflessness, tolerance, and justice that underpin the Prophet’s historic journey.
“Hijrah teaches sacrifice and the courage to abandon anything that threatens peace and justice,” the Governor noted in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye. “I pray that this new year brings renewed faith, peace, and prosperity to all families in Kwara and across Nigeria.”
Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, also used the opportunity to remind citizens of the importance of spiritual renewal.
“Just like the Prophet’s migration signified a turning point, this is a chance for us to abandon wrongdoings and embrace a path that leads to peace, development, and stability,” he stated.
In his own message, the Senator representing Kwara Central, Saliu Mustapha, described Hijrah as a time for introspection and faith renewal.
“It is a season that reminds us of the values of unity, compassion and devotion to the teachings of Islam. May this new year usher in hope and divine favour for our people,” Senator Mustapha said through his media aide, Nasif Sholagberu.
Across Kwara, the 1447 AH celebration has become more than a religious observance; it is a shared call by traditional, political, and religious leaders for love, tolerance, and spiritual recommitment in a time when the country needs healing and harmony.
