Three Nigerian Governors Announce Reduced Working Hours for Ramadan 2026
The holy month of Ramadan 2026 has commenced across Nigeria, following the official announcement by His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA). In a significant move to support Muslim civil servants during this spiritual period, three state governors have implemented adjustments to official working schedules.
Ramadan Commencement and Spiritual Significance
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, began on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, after the sighting of the crescent moon was confirmed in Saudi Arabia on February 17. This holiest month in Islam involves fasting from dawn to sunset, with Muslims abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours. The period is marked by increased prayer, reflection, and community gatherings, particularly during Iftar meals at sunset.
State-by-State Adjustments to Working Conditions
Bauchi State: Governor Bala Mohammed has authorized a reduction in working hours for state civil servants throughout the 30-day Ramadan period. A circular issued by Ismail Ibn L Garam, Director of Establishments at the Office of the Head of Civil Service, stated that the adjustment aims to enable Muslim workers to observe religious obligations and participate fully in worship activities. The directive took effect immediately upon Ramadan's commencement.
Jigawa State: Governor Umar Namadi has similarly approved reduced official working hours for the duration of Ramadan. According to a statement from Muhammad Dagaceri, the state's Head of Service, civil servants will now work from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Monday through Thursday, instead of the usual 5:00 PM conclusion. This change provides additional time for fasting observance and spiritual practices.
Kebbi State: Governor Nasir Idris has implemented a two-hour reduction in daily working hours during Ramadan. Hafsat Ibrahim Tune, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Establishment, Pension and Training, announced that workers will operate from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM Monday through Thursday, with Friday hours shortened to 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Rationale Behind the Policy Changes
The three governors have emphasized that these adjustments are designed to accommodate the physical and spiritual demands of Ramadan fasting. By reducing working hours, civil servants can better manage energy levels during daylight fasting, attend additional prayers, and participate in community iftar gatherings. These measures reflect the cultural and religious significance of Ramadan in predominantly Muslim regions of northern Nigeria.
The policy implementations follow established protocols, with official circulars and statements distributed through government channels to ensure proper communication to all affected civil servants. These temporary schedule modifications demonstrate how state governments are responding to religious observances within their administrative frameworks.
