The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially declared Tuesday, January 20, 2026, as the commencement of the Islamic month of Sha’aban 1447 AH.
Nationwide Moon Sighting Exercise Conducted
This significant announcement was made following a coordinated nationwide moon sighting exercise held on Monday, January 19, 2026. The date corresponded with the 29th day of the preceding month, Rajab 1447 AH, which is the traditional day for searching for the new crescent moon.
A formal statement confirming the sighting was issued on Monday and signed by Yahaya Muhammad Boyi, the Sarkin Malaman Sokoto, acting on behalf of the National Moonsighting Committee of Nigeria. The statement detailed the process and outcome of the religious exercise.
How the Sighting Was Reported and Confirmed
Prior to the sighting, the Sultanate Council, through its Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, had directed the Muslim faithful across Nigeria to observe the sky on January 19. The committee urged anyone who successfully sighted the new crescent to report it immediately through their local district or village heads.
These traditional rulers were then responsible for conveying the verified reports through the appropriate channels to the Sultanate Council in Sokoto. After evaluating the received reports, the Sultan confirmed the sighting and consequently announced the start of Sha’aban.
The Advisory Committee emphasized that the moon-sighting exercise is a serious religious obligation that requires diligence and active participation from the community.
The Significance of Sha'aban for Nigerian Muslims
Sha’aban is the eighth month in the Islamic Hijri calendar and directly precedes the holy month of Ramadan. It is traditionally a period for spiritual preparation and reflection ahead of the fasting month.
Muslims in Nigeria and worldwide use the 29 or 30 days of Sha’aban to increase in worship, seek forgiveness, and ready themselves mentally and spiritually for the rigors and blessings of Ramadan. The accurate determination of its start date is therefore crucial for the religious calendar.
The statement from the Sultanate Council concluded with prayers for divine guidance and a successful moon-sighting exercise for the entire Muslim community in Nigeria.
