The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has directed Muslims across Nigeria to watch for the new moon of Jumada Assaniya 1448 AH on Monday, November 9, 2026.
Jumada Assaniya, also written as Jumada al-Thani or Jumada al-Akhirah, is the sixth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The directive was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Sultanate Council of Sokoto, which urged the faithful to begin searching for the crescent on Monday, corresponding to the 29th day of Jumada al-Ula 1448 AH.
Statement Signed by Wazirin Sokoto
The statement was signed by the Wazirin Sokoto, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, who also serves as Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs. It asked Muslims who sight the new moon to report their observations to the nearest district or village head for onward communication to the Sultan.
“Muslims are therefore requested to start looking for the new moon of Jumada Assaniya 1448 AH on Monday and report its sighting to the nearest District or Village Head for onward communication to His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA),” the statement said.
The council further explained that reports of confirmed sightings should be channelled through the traditional institutions so that the Sultan can take the necessary action. It also called on Muslims to seek Allah’s guidance and assistance in discharging this religious responsibility.
“May Allah (SWT) help us in the discharge of this religious duty, amen,” the statement added.
Significance of the Moon Sighting
The announcement follows the established practice of relying on verified sightings to determine the beginning of each month in the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims across the country are therefore encouraged to participate in the exercise and to forward any confirmed observation through the appropriate traditional channels without delay.
