The Sultanate Council has directed Muslims in Nigeria to look for the new moon of Sha’aban 1447 AH on Monday, January 19, 2026.
The announcement was made in a notice on Sunday signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Prof. Sambo Junaidu.
According to the statement, Monday corresponds to the 29th day of Rajab 1447 AH, which is the appropriate day for the crescent sighting to determine the start of the Islamic month of Sha’aban.
“The Committee wishes to inform the Muslim Ummah that the search for the new moon of Sha’aban 1447 AH should commence on Monday. This date corresponds to the 29th of Rajab 1447 AH, in line with Islamic tradition,” the notice read.
Muslims were encouraged to participate actively and report any credible sightings to the nearest District or Village Head for onward transmission to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.
“We urge all faithful to report any credible moon sighting to the appropriate authorities,” the Committee stated, describing the exercise as “a religious responsibility that requires diligence.”
The Advisory Committee also offered prayers for a successful moon-sighting exercise and divine guidance for the Muslim community.
