The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced Tuesday, June 16, as the first day of Muharram 1448AH in Nigeria, marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Monday in Sokoto by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs.
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and signifies the start of the new Hijri year for Muslims worldwide.
In a related development, the Sokoto State Government declared Tuesday as a public holiday in commemoration of the Islamic New Year, allowing Muslims in the state to observe the occasion.
The declaration was made in a statement issued by Abubakar Bawa, Director-General of Media and Publicity to Governor Ahmed Aliyu.
Governor Aliyu urged residents to use the opportunity to pray for peace and stability, particularly in Sokoto State and across Nigeria, amid ongoing security challenges.
He described insecurity as a major obstacle to national development and emphasized the need for collective action in addressing it.
“The Federal and State Governments are doing their best through sustained support to security agencies in the fight against banditry and other forms of criminality,” the governor said.
He stressed that securing the country is a shared responsibility, calling on citizens to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability.
Governor Aliyu also encouraged Muslims to reflect on their actions as the new Islamic year begins, urging them to assess their lives and commit to positive change.
He called for repentance, spiritual renewal, and dedication to righteous living, noting that Allah remains “Most Forgiving and Most Merciful.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting Islamic activities and religious harmony across Sokoto State.
He extended his best wishes to Muslims in the state and across Nigeria for a peaceful and prosperous Islamic New Year, 1448AH.
