The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on Muslims across the country to commence the search for the crescent moon of Zulhijja today, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, corresponding to the 29th day of Zulkida, 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.
This was contained in an official statement issued by Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto.
According to the statement, Muslims who sight the new moon are advised to promptly report their observations to the nearest district or village head for onward transmission to the Sultan.
The Sultanate Council emphasized that the monthly moon observation plays a vital role in maintaining the accuracy of the Islamic lunar calendar. It also enhances the credibility and unity of moon sighting practices during significant Islamic months, such as Ramadan and Zulhijja.
The sighting of the Zulhijja moon marks the beginning of the month in which Muslims around the world observe the Hajj pilgrimage and celebrate Eid al-Adha, one of the two major Islamic festivals.