The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Wednesday, May 28, 2025, as the first day of Zulhijja 1446 AH, following the confirmed sighting of the new moon.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto.
According to the statement, the monthly lunar observations are essential for determining the start of Islamic months, ensuring accuracy and unity in religious observances across Nigeria. Regular moon sighting activities, the Sultanate explains, reinforce the credibility of calendar-based decisions, particularly for significant periods such as Ramadan and Hajj.
Zulhijja, the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is especially significant for Muslims worldwide. It includes the annual pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj), one of the five pillars of Islam, and culminates with the Eid al-Adha celebration—expected to fall on the 10th of Zulhijja.
Nigerian Muslims intending to observe Hajj this year will be making final travel and spiritual preparations during this period.