The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Sunday, July 7, 2024, as the first day of Muharram, marking the beginning of the Islamic year 1446 AH. This declaration, made by the President General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, signals the start of a new year for Muslims around the world.
In response to this announcement, some states in Nigeria, such as Kano, Kwara, and Kebbi, have declared Monday, July 8, 2024, as a public holiday to commemorate the occasion. The governors of these states have encouraged citizens to use this time for reflection, community engagement, and prayer.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto, Sambo Junaidu, on Friday.
Junaidu stated that there was no report of sighting the moon by national and the various moon sighting committees across the country.
He said, “The national and the various moon sighting committees across the country did not receive any report on the sighting of the new moon of Muharram on Friday, 5th July, 2024, which is the 29th of Dhul’Hijja 1445 AH, hence Saturday, 6th of July, is the 30th of Dhul’Hijja.”
The Sultan felicitated Nigerian Muslims on the new year.
He urged them to continuously pray for peace, progress and development of Nigeria.
