The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has announced that Thursday, July 16, 2026, will mark the beginning of Safar 1448AH after the new crescent moon was not sighted anywhere in Nigeria. The announcement followed a review of moon sighting reports conducted by the Sultanate Council in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee.
According to a statement issued at the Sultan’s Palace in Sokoto by the Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu, no credible report confirmed the sighting of the Safar crescent on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, corresponding with the 29th day of Muharram 1448AH.
As a result, Muharram will complete its full 30-day cycle in line with Islamic jurisprudence and established lunar calendar principles. The council explained that Wednesday, July 15, 2026, will be observed as the final day of Muharram, while Safar 1448AH officially begins on Thursday, July 16.
The declaration follows the long-standing Islamic practice of determining the beginning and end of lunar months through authenticated crescent moon sightings. Islamic scholars noted that the process reflects the importance of verification, consultation and strict adherence to Islamic guidelines before announcing significant dates on the Hijri calendar.
As the recognised spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims, the Sultan’s announcement serves as the official guide for Muslim faithful, Islamic institutions and mosques across the country regarding the commencement of Safar 1448AH and related religious observances.
The Sultanate Council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining transparency and compliance with Islamic principles during the moon-sighting exercise, stressing that only verified reports are accepted before any official declaration is made. The council also appreciated members of the National Moon Sighting Committee and volunteers nationwide who participated in monitoring the crescent.
With the commencement of Safar 1448AH, Muslims are encouraged to continue their religious obligations, strengthen their faith and uphold values that promote peaceful coexistence and national unity. The Sultan also prayed for lasting peace, stability and progress in Nigeria while urging Muslims to remain steadfast in faith and contribute positively to the nation’s development.
