Sokoto Sultanate Sets August 13 for Rabi'ul Awwal Moon Sighting

Sokoto State's Sultanate Council has instructed the Muslim population throughout Nigeria to scan the sky on Thursday, August 13, 2026, for the crescent that signals the start of Rabi'ul Awwal on the Islamic calendar. An official announcement released Wednesday, August 12, bore the signature of Prof.

Sambo Wali Junaidu, who serves as both Wazirin Sokoto and head of the council's Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs. The date of August 13 corresponds with Safar 1448 AH's 29th day, establishing it as when observations for the moon's appearance should commence.

According to the statement, any Muslim who successfully identifies the crescent must notify the nearest Village Head or District Head without delay. Such local officials will then forward verified reports through appropriate channels to His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto.

This directive reflects Islamic tradition, which relies on lunar observation to determine when each month begins in the Islamic calendar. Northern Nigeria's religious affairs have long been coordinated by the Sokoto Sultanate, which gathers crescent sightings and communicates official confirmations that influence prayer schedules, fasting periods, and other religious observances throughout the Muslim community.

The council's appeal addresses Muslims throughout the nation, not merely those in Sokoto, demonstrating the sultanate's broad authority in matters of Islamic practice. All believers interested in participating have been encouraged to examine the evening sky carefully and adhere to the specified reporting procedures, ensuring that observations reach the Sultan and other relevant officials.