The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially announced Thursday, July 16, 2026, as the first day of Safar 1448AH following the non-sighting of the new crescent moon across Nigeria.
The declaration was contained in a statement issued from the Sultan’s Palace in Sokoto by the Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu.
According to the statement, the Sultanate Council, working in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, carefully assessed reports received from different parts of the country after the moon sighting exercise conducted on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Muharram 1448AH.
The committee stated that none of the reports received met the required standard to confirm the sighting of the crescent marking the beginning of Safar.
As a result, it was concluded that Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, would complete the full 30 days in accordance with Islamic principles governing the lunar calendar.
The statement explained that Wednesday, July 15, 2026, would therefore be observed as the 30th day of Muharram 1448AH, while Thursday, July 16, 2026, would officially usher in Safar, the second month of the Islamic Hijri calendar.
The Sultan’s announcement follows the long-established Islamic tradition of determining the beginning of each lunar month through the physical sighting of the new moon, supported by verified testimonies from accredited observers.
Islamic scholars have consistently maintained that the process reflects the importance of consultation, credibility and strict adherence to Islamic jurisprudence in fixing dates for religious observances.
As the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria, the Sultan’s pronouncements serve as the official guide for Islamic institutions, mosques and Muslim communities nationwide regarding the commencement of new lunar months and related religious activities.
The declaration is expected to be observed across the country by Muslim faithful who rely on the Sultanate Council for official announcements concerning the Islamic calendar.
The Sultanate Council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining transparency and ensuring that only authenticated moon-sighting reports are accepted before any official declaration is made.
The council also expressed appreciation to members of the National Moon Sighting Committee and volunteers across Nigeria who participated in the moon observation exercise.
With the commencement of Safar 1448AH, Muslims are expected to continue their acts of worship, religious obligations and spiritual activities in accordance with Islamic teachings.
The Sultan also offered prayers for Nigeria, asking Allah to grant the nation lasting peace, stability and progress while urging Muslims to remain devoted to their faith, promote peaceful coexistence and contribute meaningfully to national development.
