Oyo state government on Thursday announced Monday, the  8th July 2024 as work-free day to commemorate this year’s new Islamic calendar year, Hijrah 1446AH.

The state Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who announced this in a statement tasked the people of the state to use the Hijrah holiday to pray for the peace, unity, and prosperity in the country.

Prince Oyelade pointed out that Hijrah marks the migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD, and is considered a significant event in Islamic history” and that the state government recognises the importance of the Hijrah in the lives of its Muslim brothers and sisters.

“ As a gesture of respect and solidarity with the Muslim community, we have declared Monday 8th July 2024 a work-free day in the state.” he said.