The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Thursday, July 16, 2026, as the first day of Safar 1448AH after the new crescent moon was not sighted across Nigeria.
This was disclosed in a statement issued at the Sultan’s Palace in Sokoto by the Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu.
The statement said the committee, working alongside the National Moon Sighting Committee, reviewed reports from across the country but found no credible evidence that the Safar crescent was sighted on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, which was the 29th day of Muharram 1448AH.
It explained that this meant Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, would run its full 30-day course as required by Islamic jurisprudence and lunar calculations.
According to the statement, Wednesday, July 15, 2026, would be the 30th and final day of Muharram 1448AH, with Safar, the second month of the Hijri calendar, beginning on Thursday, July 16.
The Sultan’s declaration followed the standard Islamic practice of confirming the start and end of lunar months through verified moon sightings. Religious scholars said the process reflects the importance of accuracy and adherence to Islamic guidelines in fixing dates for religious observances.
As spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims, the Sultan’s announcement serves as a guide for Muslim faithful nationwide on the new month and related religious activities. It is expected to be observed by Islamic institutions, mosques and Muslim communities that rely on the Sultanate for determining key dates in the Hijri calendar.
The Sultanate Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and strict adherence to Islamic principles in the moon-sighting process, noting that only verified reports are accepted before declarations are made. It also commended members of the National Moon Sighting Committee and volunteers nationwide for their participation.
The Sultan prayed for peace, stability and progress for Nigeria, urging Muslims to remain steadfast in faith, promote harmony and contribute positively to national development.
READ ALSO:
- Court Grants Ex-CCT Chairman Danladi Umar ₦100m Bail Over Corruption Charges
- Senate Approves ₦50m For Families Of Slain Teachers, Soldiers In Oyo Abduction
- FirstBank-Sponsored ‘Mary’ Musical Play Wows Audience with AI-Infused Storytelling | By Oladapo Sofowora
- Akpabio: We Won’t Manufacture Conflict With Tinubu’s Government
- Nigeria Loses 3,100GWh Electricity to Gas Flaring in May — NOSDRA
