Leader orders countrywide lunar observation as Islamic community gears up for Hijri calendar commencement

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Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA)

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By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

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SOKOTO: The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on Muslims across Nigeria to participate in the sighting of the new moon of Muharram 1448AH, a key exercise that will determine the commencement of the Islamic New Year.

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The directive was conveyed in a statement issued by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, Sokoto, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu.

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According to the statement, Monday, June 15, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th day of Zulhijjah 1447AH, has been designated for the nationwide sighting of the Muharram crescent, the first month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

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The Sultan urged Muslims across the country to carefully observe the sky after sunset and report any authentic sighting of the new moon through the established traditional channels.

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He advised that all confirmed sightings should be communicated to the nearest District Head or Village Head for onward transmission to the Sultanate Council and the Sultan.

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The annual moon-sighting exercise serves as the basis for determining the beginning of a new Islamic month and is a significant religious obligation observed by Muslim communities across Nigeria and the world.

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Muharram holds special importance in Islam as one of the four sacred months and marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar, which determines major religious events and observances.

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The outcome of the moon-sighting exercise will guide the official declaration of the first day of Muharram 1448AH and the commencement of the Islamic New Year for Muslims in Nigeria.

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Religious leaders have traditionally encouraged widespread participation in the exercise, emphasizing accuracy and adherence to established procedures for reporting sightings.

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The Sultanate Council is expected to announce the official position on the commencement of Muharram after receiving and verifying reports from across the country.

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The announcement comes as Muslim faithful prepare to usher in a new Islamic year, a period often marked by reflection, prayers and renewed commitment to spiritual growth.

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Many note that the Sultan’s annual declaration remains the authoritative reference for the commencement of Islamic months in Nigeria, fostering unity and uniformity in nationwide religious observance.

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