…As Gov. Yusuf urges moral rebirth in Islamic New Year

Saudi Arabian authorities have unveiled the new multi-million-riyal Kiswa, the black silk covering of the Holy Kaaba, as part of the annual ritual marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

The long-standing tradition, which includes the removal of gold-embroidered ornaments, decorative elements, lamps and other embellishments attached to the existing Kiswa, as well as the lowering of the curtain covering the Kaaba’s door, was carried out shortly after midnight on the first day of the new Islamic year.

The process, coordinated by the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, took several hours and was executed by a specialized team of Saudi experts.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the new Kiswa was transported from the King Abdulaziz Complex to the Grand Mosque under a carefully coordinated operational framework that meets international standards.
Experts estimate that the production of the Kiswa costs approximately SAR 25 million (about N9 billion). The process involves the use of 825 kilograms of natural silk, 47 rolls of black silk for the outer covering, and 400 kilograms of raw cotton for the inner lining.

In addition, 60 kilograms of pure silver and 120 kilograms of gold-plated silver are used in the intricate embroidery of Quranic verses and decorative motifs adorning the sacred cloth.

SPA noted that Saudi craftsmen continue to play a crucial role in preserving the heritage and artistic excellence of the Kiswa through hand weaving, an essential aspect of producing the highly specialized decorative pieces that require exceptional precision and craftsmanship.

Following the completion of dyeing, weaving, testing, printing, embroidery, hand weaving and assembly, the various components are brought together to form the complete Kiswa before it is installed on the Holy Kaaba.

The seven-stage production process reflects a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, ensuring that the Kiswa remains a masterpiece befitting the sanctity of the Holy Kaaba and the Grand Mosque.

For more than a century, the annual replacement of the Kiswa has served as a powerful symbol of Saudi Arabia‘s commitment to preserving Islamic heritage and caring for the Two Holy Mosques.
Meanwhile, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has called on Muslims to embrace the values of sacrifice, self-discipline and moral rebirth as they usher in the year 1448 AH.

In a goodwill message to Muslim faithful, issued through his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor described the Islamic New Year as a period for deep reflection, gratitude and renewed commitment to ideals that promote peaceful coexistence and societal progress.

He noted that the historic migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Madinah remains a timeless lesson in faith, resilience and leadership.
According to him, the event transformed the course of Islamic history and laid the foundation for a society built on justice, compassion, and mutual respect.

Governor Yusuf urged Muslims to use the occasion to strengthen their relationship with Allah, uphold moral values and contribute positively to the development of their communities.

He emphasized that the spirit of Hijrah should inspire citizens to shun hatred, division, and intolerance while embracing unity, understanding, and collective responsibility in addressing the challenges facing society.