The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has directed Muslims across Nigeria to look for the new moon of Muharram 1448AH on Monday, June 15, 2026.
The directive was contained in a statement issued by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council Sokoto, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu.
Junaidu said Monday, June 15, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th day of Zulhijjah 1447AH, has been designated for the sighting of the new moon that will mark the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.
He urged Muslims in every part of the country to observe the sky diligently and report any confirmed sighting of the moon.
The statement said such reports should be made to the nearest District Head or Village Head for onward transmission to the Sultan’s palace in Sokoto.
The Sultanate Council explained that the sighting exercise is in line with Islamic tradition which determines the start of new lunar months through physical observation of the moon.
Muharram holds significance in Islam as it is one of the four sacred months and marks the beginning of the Hijrah calendar.
The month is also observed by Muslims worldwide for fasting, reflection, and remembrance, particularly on the Day of Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram.
Junaidu noted that the Sultanate Council would make an official announcement after receiving and verifying reports from across the country.
He appealed to clerics, Imams, and community leaders to sensitize Muslims on the importance of participating in the moon sighting exercise.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining unity in the declaration of Islamic months and avoiding conflicting announcements.
Muslims are expected to await the Sultan’s pronouncement on Monday evening to confirm whether Tuesday, June 16, 2026, will be observed as 1st Muharram 1448AH.
The Sultanate Council also prayed for peace, unity, and blessings for the nation as Muslims prepare to enter the new Islamic year.