The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has directed the Muslim community to observe the crescent of Sha’aban 1446 AH on Wednesday, January 29, corresponding to the 29th day of Rajab 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.
The directive was issued in a statement on Tuesday by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, the Waziri of Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs.
The statement urged that once the crescent moon is sighted, reports should be submitted to the nearest district or village head for onward communication to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for official confirmation.
“May Allah (SWT) help us in the discharge of this religious duty. Amen,” the statement concluded.
The sighting of the new moon of Sha’aban holds religious significance in Islam, as it marks the beginning of the month preceding Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. This declaration aids the Muslim faithful in their preparations for Ramadan.