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The Sultan of Sokoto has declared Thursday, July 16, 2026, as the first day of Safar 1448AH after the new crescent moon was not sighted across Nigeria.
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Muharram 1448AH will complete its full 30-day cycle, with Wednesday, July 15, observed as the final day of the Islamic month’s calendar.
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The declaration followed consultations between the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs and the National Moon Sighting Committee.
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The Sultan urged Muslims to remain steadfast in faith, promote peace and harmony, and contribute positively to Nigeria’s development.
July 15, (THEWILL) — 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 following the non-sighting of the new crescent moon across Nigeria.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday from the Sultan’s Palace in Sokoto by the Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu.
No Verified Crescent Moon Sighting
According to the statement, the Sultanate Council, working in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee, reviewed moon-sighting reports received from different parts of the country but found no credible evidence confirming the sighting of the Safar crescent on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Muharram 1448AH.
The council explained that in line with Islamic jurisprudence governing the lunar calendar, the absence of an authenticated moon sighting meant that Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, would complete its full 30-day duration.
Safar Begins Thursday
Consequently, Wednesday, July 15, 2026, will be observed as the 30th and final day of Muharram, while Thursday, July 16, 2026, will officially usher in Safar, the second month of the Hijri calendar.
The declaration follows the long-established Islamic tradition of determining the beginning and end of lunar months through verified crescent moon sightings, a process regarded as central to the observance of religious obligations and important dates in Islam.
Religious scholars noted that the procedure reflects the principles of accuracy, consultation and strict adherence to Islamic guidelines, ensuring that official announcements are based solely on authenticated evidence.
Guidance For Muslim Faithful
As the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria, the Sultan’s pronouncement serves as the authoritative guide for Islamic institutions, mosques and Muslim communities across the country in determining the commencement of lunar months and other religious activities tied to the Hijri calendar.
The Sultanate Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and strict compliance with Islamic principles in the moon-sighting process, stressing that only verified and authenticated reports are accepted before any official declaration is made.
Prayer For Peace And National Development
The council also commended members of the National Moon Sighting Committee and volunteers across Nigeria who participated in the moon-sighting exercise, describing their efforts as vital to preserving the integrity of the Islamic calendar.
With the commencement of Safar 1448AH, Muslims across the country are expected to continue their religious activities and spiritual engagements in accordance with Islamic teachings and the guidance of recognised religious authorities.
The Sultan concluded the announcement with prayers for enduring peace, stability and progress in Nigeria, urging Muslim faithful to remain steadfast in their faith, foster peaceful coexistence and continue making positive contributions to national development.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
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