Following declaration by Sultan of Sokoto and Leader of Nigerian Muslims, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, that Saudi Arabia’s declaration of Arafat day stands despite not sighting the new moon of Dhul-Hijjah same day in Nigeria, the nation’s Federal Government on Tuesday declared Monday August 12 and Tuesday August 13, 2019 as public holidays to mark the 1440AH Eid-el-Kabir.
The observance of the Eid-el-Kabir prayers will be on Sunday 11 August.
Mr Mohammed Manga, Director of Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Interior, in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, said the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Mrs Georgina Ehuriah, made the declaration.
Ehuriah congratulated the Muslim faithful and called on all Nigerians to use the period of this year’s celebration to embrace the virtues of love, humility, peace and sacrifice as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Mohammed (Pbuh).
She urged Nigerians to shun any form of disruptive tendencies and join hands with the Federal Government to build a peaceful, strong and united Nigeria.
Ehuriah reaffirmed the determination of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians.
She said that security agencies under the Ministry have been directed to ensure the provision of adequate security, before, during and after the celebrations.
The Permanent Secretary restated government’s desire for all Nigerians to live a life of sacrifice, charity and love for one another.
She wished Nigerians a happy, peaceful and fulfilling Eid-Al-Kabir.
Muslim pilgrims from across the world, who have gathered in Saudi Arabia’s Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah, will on Saturday August 10 go to Mount Arafat, a rite I fulfillment of the fifth pillar of Islam.
