The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced Tuesday, January 20, 2026, as the first day of Sha’aban 1447 AH.
The declaration was contained in a statement issued on Monday, January 19, 2026, by the Wazirin Sokoto, who also serves as Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council.
According to the statement, Monday, January 19, marked the 29th day of Rajab 1447 AH, the traditional day set aside in Islam for the sighting of the new moon to determine the beginning of Sha’aban.
It recalled that the Sultan had earlier proclaimed Monday, December 22, 2025, as the first day of Rajab 1447 AH, in line with the Islamic lunar calendar, thereby fixing the moon sighting for Sha’aban accordingly.
The Sultan called on Muslims across Nigeria to use the period for increased prayers, peaceful coexistence, and sustained devotion to Allah.
