The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially declared Monday, August 25, 2025, as the first day of Rabi’ul Awwal 1447AH.
The announcement, issued on Saturday, was conveyed through the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Junaidu.
He explained that the decision followed consultations with the National Moon Sighting Committee and reports from moon sighting groups across the country, which confirmed that the new crescent moon was not observed on Saturday, August 23, 2025, corresponding to 29th Safar 1447AH.
“Sunday, August 24, 2025, will therefore be the 30th day of Safar, making Monday the first day of Rabi’ul Awwal 1447AH,” Professor Junaidu said in the statement.
The declaration underscores the coordinated approach of the NSCIA and affiliated moon sighting committees in determining the beginning of the Islamic month, ensuring uniform observance of religious events across Nigeria.
“His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, the Sultan of Sokoto, has accepted the report and accordingly declared Monday, 25th August 2025, as the first day of Rabi’ul Awwal 1447AH,” the statement added.
Rabi’ul Awwal is a significant month in the Islamic calendar, marking the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and prompting religious observances, prayers, and celebrations among Muslim communities nationwide.
The Sultan’s announcement is expected to guide religious leaders, mosques, and Islamic organisations in planning commemorative activities and congregational prayers for the start of the month.
