Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto and the President General Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has declared Friday January 31, 2025 as the first day of Sha’aban 1446AH.
Abubakar, made the declaration in a statement by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto.
According to the press release, no moon sighting reports were received from various committees nationwide as at Wednesday.
“As a result, Thursday, January 30, 2025, will be observed as the 30th day of Rajab 1446AH.
“His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has accepted the report and officially declared Friday, January 31, 2025, as the first day of Sha’aban 1446AH.
“The announcement is significant for the Muslim community, as Sha’aban is the month preceding Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam.
“The declaration ensures uniformity in the Islamic calendar, guiding religious observances across Nigeria”, it added.
The Sultanate Council also urged Muslims to follow official announcements regarding Islamic dates and to prepare spiritually for the upcoming month of Ramadan.