By Muhammad Mukhtar Idris.
The El-Birru Muslim Association of Nigeria (EMAN), yesterday, 28th of June 2025, organized a grand celebration to mark the Islamic New Year beginning and the launching of the Hijra calendar. The event was graced by dignitaries, including Royal Highnesses, the Five Ohi’s of Kogi Central Senatorial led by the Ohi of Okene, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Isah Mamman, alongside esteemed Scholars, including His Excellency, Ambassador Usman Bello, Justice Saidu Isah Okino, Sheikh Musa Onogu, Ustaz Muhammad Kabir Badamasiyyu, and a large gathering of Muslim members across the nation.
The Chief Imam of Egbirraland, Sheikh Muhammad Salihu Abere, who declared the event open, appreciated all the efforts EMAN has been doing in the last thirty one years of its existence, and prayed to Allah for a handsome reward for the great strive in Islamic.
The President of EMAN, Art Abdul Yakeen Mamnan, in his opening address, x-rayed the current achievement recorded by EMAN and further itemized the future plans by Allah’s willings.
The highlight of the event was a powerful lecture delivered by Professor Adams Ahmad Abare Okene, a renowned scholar and expert in Islamic and Conventional History. The lecture centered on the significance of Hijra and its relevance to the Muslim community, particularly in comparison with the traditional Eku festival celebrated by the Egbirra nation. Professor Adams Ahmad Abare Okene was ably represented by Dr, Sheikh Tajudeen Tanko.
Professor Okene’s lecture emphasized the importance of Hijra as a pivotal event in Islamic history, nothing that it symbolizes the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (Sallalahu Alyhi Wa’alih Wassallam) from Makkah to Madina. He highlighted the values of sacrifice, perseverance, and faith, that defined this journey and urged Muslims to emulate these qualities in their own lives.
The professor also stressed the need for Muslims to distance themselves from practices that are contrary to Islamic teachings, such as the Eku festival,which they claimed was an integral part of the Egbirra cultural heritage. While acknowledging the cultural significance of such festivals, Professor Okene emphasized the importance of prioritizing Islamic values and principles in all aspects of life.
The lecture concluded with a call to action, urging Muslims to reflect on the lessons of Hijra and to strive for spiritual growth and self-improvement in the new year. The attendees were encouraged to embrace the values of compassion, justice, and righteousness, that are at the heart of Islamic teachings.
The celebration of the Islamic New Year and the launch of the Hijra calendar serves as a reminder of the importance of Islamic values and principles in the lives of Muslims. The event provided a platform for Muslims to come together, reflect on the significance of Hijra, and renew their commitment to living according to Islamic teachings.
