Nigeria's Sultan Declares Start of Safar 1448AH After Moon Sighting Review

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, has declared Thursday, July 16, 2026, as the first day of Safar 1448AH following the non-sighting of the new crescent moon across Nigeria.

Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, announced the decision at the Sultan's Palace in Sokoto. The committee, in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee, reviewed reports from various parts of the country but did not receive any credible evidence confirming the sighting of the Safar crescent on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.

The statement from the Sultanate Council said the development meant that Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, would complete its full 30-day cycle in line with Islamic jurisprudence and lunar calendar calculations. It added that Wednesday, July 15, 2026, would be observed as the 30th and final day of Muharram 1448AH, while Thursday, July 16, 2026, would mark the beginning of Safar.

The Sultan's declaration followed the established Islamic tradition of determining the commencement and conclusion of lunar months through verified moon sightings. Religious scholars noted that the process underscores the importance of accuracy, consultation, and adherence to Islamic guidelines in determining dates for religious observances.

As the spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims, the Sultan's pronouncement provides guidance to Muslim faithful across the country on the commencement of the new month and other activities tied to the Islamic calendar. The declaration is expected to be observed by Islamic institutions, mosques, and Muslim communities nationwide, which rely on the Sultanate's announcements for the determination of important dates in the Hijri calendar.

The Sultanate Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and strict compliance with Islamic principles in the moon-sighting process, stressing that only authenticated reports are accepted before official declarations are made. The council also commended members of the National Moon Sighting Committee and volunteers across the country who participated in the exercise.

With the commencement of Safar 1448AH, Muslims are expected to continue their religious activities and spiritual engagements in line with Islamic teachings and guidance from religious authorities. The Sultan prayed for peace, stability, and progress for Nigeria, urging Muslims to remain steadfast in faith, promote harmony, and contribute positively to national development.