The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Monday, August 25, 2025, as the first day of the Islamic month of Rabi’ul Awwal 1447AH.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Saturday by the Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu.
According to the statement, reports from the National Moon Sighting Committee and local committees across the country confirmed that the new crescent was not sighted on Saturday, August 23, 2025, which corresponded to the 29th of Safar 1447AH.
Professor Junaidu explained: “Since there was no confirmed sighting of the crescent on Saturday, the month of Safar will be completed with 30 days. Therefore, Monday, August 25, 2025, will be the first day of Rabi’ul Awwal 1447AH.”
The Sultan accepted the report and formally endorsed the declaration, urging the Muslim faithful across Nigeria to take note of the commencement of the new month.
“His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, has approved the findings and accordingly declared Monday as the beginning of Rabi’ul Awwal,” the statement added.
Rabi’ul Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds special significance for Muslims worldwide as it marks the birth month of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
