Sultan of Sokoto Declares July 16 as First Day of Safar 1448AH
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, has announced that Safar 1448AH will begin on Thursday, July 16, 2026, following a review of moon sighting reports across Nigeria.
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The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, has officially declared Thursday, July 16, 2026, as the first day of Safar 1448AH, marking the commencement of the second month of the Islamic calendar in Nigeria. The announcement follows a comprehensive review of moon sighting reports from various parts of the country.
As the spiritual leader of Nigeria’s Muslim community and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the Sultan emphasized the importance of sighting verification in determining Islamic dates. In a statement issued from Sokoto, he confirmed that the new crescent moon was not sighted across Nigeria, necessitating the completion of thirty days of Dhul Hijjah before the commencement of Safar. This decision aligns with Islamic tradition, which requires either direct observation of the crescent or the completion of the preceding month’s full cycle when the moon is obscured.
The declaration underscores the central role of religious authority in guiding the observance of the Islamic calendar across Nigeria. As millions of Muslims adjust their religious and social calendars, the announcement provides clarity for upcoming observances and rituals associated with the month of Safar. While historically marked by varying cultural interpretations, Safar remains a period for reflection and spiritual preparation within the Islamic calendar.
The Sultan’s pronouncement, widely disseminated through official and media channels, reflects the enduring significance of centralized religious leadership in unifying Muslim practice across Nigeria’s diverse communities. The announcement was reported by Vanguard News and confirmed by Legit.ng, reinforcing its national reach and acceptance.