The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has called on the Muslim Ummah to begin the search for the new moon of Sha’aban 1446 AH on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, which corresponds to the 29th day of Rajab 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.
In a statement signed by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, Waziri of Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, the council urged Muslims across the country to observe the moon and report any sightings to their nearest District or Village Head.
The reports, once received, are to be relayed to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for official confirmation.
The sighting of the Sha’aban moon is an important religious practice, as Sha’aban marks the month before Ramadan, the sacred month of fasting. Official confirmation of the new moon signifies the beginning of Sha’aban and enables Muslims to prepare adequately for Ramadan.
The statement concluded with a prayer: “May Allah (SWT) guide us in fulfilling this religious obligation. Amen.”
This announcement underscores the Sultanate Council’s traditional responsibility of issuing moon sighting declarations, which serve as a guide for Muslims in observing Islamic rites.
Muslims are advised to remain informed through their local religious leaders and official statements from the Sultanate Council.
