The Katsina State Government has declared Monday as a work-free day to commemorate the start of Islamic calendar, 1446 After Hijra (AH).

This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday in Katsina by Mr Abdullahi Aliyu-Yar’adua, the Director of Press, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba-Faskari.

The Islamic New Year began on Sunday, the first day of Al-Muharram, 1446 AH, which is the first month on the Islamic calendar.

Gov. Dikko Radda urged all the Muslims to strictly adhere to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in their daily activities.

He called on the clerics to continue to advocate for peaceful coexistence amongst the various communities in the state.

The governor also called for prayers against security challenges and hardships being faced in the country, while wishing the people a prosperous Islamic year and bumper harvest at the end of the cropping season. (NAN).