By Joyce Ekeh
The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has directed Muslims across Nigeria to begin the search for the new crescent moon of Jumada Assaniya 1448AH on Monday, November 9, 2026, as part of efforts to determine the commencement of the new Islamic month.
The directive was contained in a statement dated November 8, 2026, signed by Professor Sambo Wali Junaid and made available to journalists in Sokoto on Sunday.
According to the statement, the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council identified Monday as the 29th day of Jumada al-Ula 1448AH and the appropriate date for the nationwide moon-sighting exercise.
The council urged Muslims in all parts of the country to look out for the new crescent after sunset on Monday and participate actively in the religious exercise.
It specifically requested anyone who sights the crescent to report immediately to the nearest District or Village Head for onward communication to the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni.
The Sultan, who is also the President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), remains the recognised authority responsible for announcing the outcome of the moon-sighting exercise to Muslims nationwide.
The council emphasised the importance of timely and credible reports to ensure that the determination of the new Islamic month follows established religious procedures.
The announcement underscores the longstanding responsibility of the Sultanate Council in coordinating Islamic religious affairs and guiding the Muslim Ummah on the Islamic lunar calendar.
Professor Sambo Wali Junaid, Waziri and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, prayed Allah (SWT) to grant Muslims the guidance, strength and wisdom to discharge the religious responsibility successfully.
The council also called for sincerity, vigilance and commitment throughout the exercise, praying for divine assistance and acceptance of the moon-sighting effort.
