The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has directed Nigerian Muslims to participate in the sighting of the new moon of Muharram 1448 AH.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, Sokoto, Prof. Sambo Walid Junaidu.
According to the statement, Monday, June 15, 2026, which is the 29th day of Zulhijjah 1447 AH, has been set aside for Muslims across the country to look out for the Muharram crescent moon after sunset.
All confirmed sightings should be communicated to the nearest District Head or Village Head for onward transmission to the Sultanate Council and the Sultan, the statement added.
The statement further explained that moon sighting is an important religious practice used to determine the start of a new Islamic calendar and is regarded as one of Islam’s four sacred months.