Ramadan: Jigawa, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara Reduce Working Hours as Kano Shuts Entertainment Venues

Several northern states have announced measures to accommodate the Ramadan fast, which began Wednesday, including reduced working hours for civil servants and students. Kebbi State approved new hours: Monday-Thursday 8 am-2 pm, Friday 8 am-12 pm. Jigawa State adjusted to 9 am-3 pm Monday-Thursday. Sokoto reduced school hours for students. Zamfara State paid February salaries and pensions in advance to ease hardship during fasting.

Kano State Censorship Board ordered all “gala houses” (entertainment venues) and DJ activities shut from 10 pm Wednesday, citing the need for “a peaceful atmosphere for worship.” Meanwhile, Kaduna Governor Uba Sani freed 90 minor offenders, paying fines and compensation as part of Ramadan/Lent observances. In Kaduna, the Church of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry distributed food items to Muslims, Tsangaya schools, and IDPs ahead of Ramadan, continuing 20 years of interfaith support.

Key Points:

Reduced working hours allow civil servants to observe fasting while maintaining essential services.
Advance salary payments in Zamfara demonstrate government responsiveness to citizens’ needs during Ramadan.
Entertainment shutdown in Kano prioritises religious observance over commercial activities.
Release of minor offenders embodies Ramadan/Lent values of mercy and second chances.
Interfaith food distribution by the Kaduna church models religious harmony and compassion.

Northern states implement Ramadan accommodations, reduced work hours, advance salaries, entertainment shutdowns, prisoner releases, as Muslims begin the fasting month.

Sources: Leadership, State Governments