The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Thursday, 16th July 2026 as the 1st day of Safar 1448 AH, following the non-sighting of the new moon.
The declaration was contained in a statement issued by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, at the Sultan’s Palace in Sokoto.
The statement noted that the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, did not receive any credible report confirming the sighting of the crescent of Safar on Tuesday, 14th July, 2026, corresponding to 29th Muharram 1448 AH.
It further explained that, in line with Islamic tradition, Wednesday, 15th July 2026, marks the completion of the month of Muharram, being the 30th day of Muharram 1448 AH.
The Sultan has therefore accepted the Committee’s recommendation and officially declared Thursday, 16th July, 2026 as the first day of Safar 1448 AH.
The statement enjoined Muslims across the country to take note of the announcement.
Sultan Of Sokoto Declares Thursday As First Day Of Safar 1448 AH



