The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has called on the Muslim Ummah to observe the sky for the new moon of Sha’aban 1446 AH on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, which coincides with the 29th day of Rajab 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.
The directive was issued in a statement signed by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, the Waziri of Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs.
Released to journalists on Tuesday, the statement urged Muslims across the country to engage in moon sighting and promptly report any observations to their nearest District or Village Head.
These initial reports will then be relayed to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for formal confirmation.
The sighting of the Sha’aban moon holds significant religious importance, as this month directly precedes Ramadan, the sacred period of fasting.
Official confirmation of the new moon signals the start of Sha’aban, enabling Muslims to prepare for the upcoming holy month.
The statement concluded with a prayer: “May Allah (SWT) help us in the discharge of this religious duty. Amen.”
This announcement underscores the Sultanate Council’s pivotal role in guiding Islamic observances, particularly through moon sighting declarations that align with religious traditions.
The Muslim community is encouraged to stay informed via their local religious authorities and official communications from the Sultanate Council.