The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has issued a directive to Muslims across Nigeria to participate in the nationwide sighting of the Muharram crescent.
The annual exercise is a religious practice that will guide the official declaration and timing of Muharram 1448AH, which marks the commencement of the Islamic New Year in Nigeria.
Muharram holds a special position in Islam as one of the four sacred months and serves as the foundational reference point for the timing of major religious observances throughout the year.
According to a statement released by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, Monday, June 15, 2026—corresponding to the 29th day of Zulhijjah 1447AH—has been designated for the observation of the new moon.
In compliance with the directive, Muslims nationwide are expected to carefully observe the sky immediately after sunset.
The Sultan instructed that any verified and confirmed reports of the moon sighting should be forwarded directly to District Heads or Village Heads. These traditional leaders will then transmit the verified information through the recognized channels to the Sultanate Council and the Sultan.