The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Tuesday, January 20, 2026, as the first day of Sha’aban 1447AH.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Monday, January 19, 2026, by Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council.
According to the statement, Monday, January 19, 2026, marked the 29th day of Rajab 1447AH, which, in line with Islamic tradition, is the designated day for the sighting of the new moon that determines the commencement of Sha’aban.
The Sultan had earlier declared Monday, December 22, 2025, as the first day of Rajab 1447AH, thereby placing the crescent sighting for Sha’aban in accordance with the Islamic lunar calendar.
The Sultan urged Muslims across the country to use the period for prayers, peace, and continued devotion to Allah.