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.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu, after consultations with the National Moon Sighting Committee.
According to the statement, no credible reports confirmed the sighting of the Safar crescent on Tuesday, July 14, which corresponded with the 29th day of Muharram 1448AH.
As a result, Wednesday, July 15, will complete the 30th day of Muharram, while Thursday, July 16, marks the beginning of Safar, the second month of the Islamic calendar.
The Sultan said the declaration followed established Islamic principles, which require verified moon sightings before the commencement of a new lunar month.
The Sultanate Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and strict adherence to Islamic guidelines in determining the beginning of each Hijri month, noting that only authenticated moon-sighting reports are accepted before official announcements are made.
The council also commended members of the National Moon Sighting Committee and volunteers across the country for their efforts during the moon-sighting exercise.
The Sultan prayed for peace, unity and continued progress in Nigeria, urging Muslims to remain steadfast in faith and continue promoting harmony and national development.
