The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially declared Tuesday, June 16, as the first day of Muharram 1448AH in Nigeria.
Muharram is the opening month of the Islamic calendar and signifies the start of a new Islamic year for Muslims around the world.
The announcement was made in a statement released on Monday by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, Prof. Sambo Junaidu.
Following the declaration, the Sokoto State Government announced Tuesday, corresponding with 1 Muharram 1448AH, as a public holiday to allow Muslims in the state observe and celebrate the beginning of the Islamic New Year.
The declaration was contained in a statement issued by the Director-General of Media and Publicity to Governor Ahmed Aliyu, Abubakar Bawa.
According to the statement, Governor Aliyu urged residents to use the occasion to offer prayers for lasting peace and stability in Sokoto State and across Nigeria, particularly in light of the prevailing security challenges affecting several parts of the country.
The governor described insecurity as one of the major obstacles to national progress and development, stressing that addressing the challenge requires collective commitment from both government and citizens.
He noted that the Federal Government and the Sokoto State Government have continued to support security agencies through various measures aimed at tackling banditry and other criminal activities.
Aliyu emphasised that safeguarding the nation is a shared responsibility and called on all citizens to contribute actively to efforts aimed at restoring peace and security.
“The Federal and State Governments are doing their best through sustained support to security agencies in the fight against banditry and other forms of criminality in the state.
“We need to understand that securing our country is a collective responsibility in which every patriotic citizen must play a role,” the governor stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary support to security agencies to strengthen the ongoing fight against banditry and related crimes within the state.
Speaking on the significance of the Islamic New Year, Governor Aliyu encouraged Muslims to reflect on their actions over the past year, evaluate their achievements and shortcomings, and strive for personal improvement.
He advised the faithful to seek forgiveness from Allah, embrace repentance, and renew their dedication to living according to Islamic principles.
According to him, Allah remains Most Merciful and Ever Forgiving to those who sincerely turn to Him.
The governor also restated his administration’s commitment to promoting Islamic activities and supporting religious programmes across Sokoto State.
He concluded by extending his best wishes to Muslims in Sokoto State and throughout Nigeria, praying for a peaceful, prosperous and spiritually fulfilling Islamic New Year 1448AH.
