Islamic New Year 2025

Description

Islamic New Year marks the start of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is called the first day of Muharram and begins a new Hijri year for Muslims around the world, including Nigeria.

The date changes each year because the Islamic calendar follows the moon. That means the holiday moves about ten or eleven days earlier each solar year, so Nigerians check the lunar sighting or official announcements to know the exact day.

The holiday remembers the Hijra, the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina, which began the Islamic era. This historical event gives the day its name and explains why it is an important moment in Muslim history.

In Nigeria the day is meaningful to many people, and it is observed by communities and sometimes recognized by authorities as a public holiday. It brings focus to faith and shared identity.

For believers the day is a time for quiet reflection and planning for the year ahead. It encourages spiritual renewal, remembering the past, and strengthening bonds within the community.

Traditions

In cities and villages people gather at mosques for extra prayers and recitation of the Quran. Families visit elders and neighbours to exchange greetings and offer blessings. Children often go with parents to join communal prayer.

Households prepare special foods to share. Common dishes include rice meals like tuwo and spicy stews, sweet snacks and local drinks such as kunu. Neighbours and the poor receive plates of food as charity. Community kitchens cook for large groups.

People wear clean or new clothes and sometimes give small gifts or money to children. Religious leaders lead talks and reminders about good behavior. In some areas families visit graves to pray for loved ones. Celebrations are calm and community focused.

Travel Tips

Check schedules: banks, government offices and some shops may close or open late. Public transport can be busier at dawn and evening. Book buses, trains or flights early and expect traffic near mosques and markets.

Join public events respectfully and dress modestly. Stay with friends or in well reviewed hotels. Keep valuables safe and follow local police or event staff instructions. Try local food stalls when open and offer polite greetings to hosts.