Sultanate Council Calls for Rabi’ul Awwal Moon Sighting

The Sultanate Council of Sokoto issued a statement on August 12, 2026, signed by Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs. The council designated August 13, 2026, corresponding to 29th Safar 1448AH, as the day for Muslims to observe the new moon of Rabi’ul Awwal 1448AH.

Muslims who sight the moon are encouraged to report their observations to the nearest District or Village Head, who will then communicate the sightings to His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA). Rabi’ul Awwal is significant in the Islamic calendar, particularly as the 12th day is traditionally recognized as the birth date of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Many Muslims commemorate this occasion through various religious activities, including Maulud gatherings, lectures, and recitations of the holy Qur’an. The Sultanate Council prayed for Allah’s assistance in the moon sighting and the successful commencement of Rabi’ul Awwal 1448AH.