As the Islamic calendar approaches the month of Zulqa’ada, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has issued a directive urging Muslims to commence the search for the new moon.
This was announced through a statement released by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Chairman of the Sultanate Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs.
The Sultan, who also serves as the President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Nigeria, stated the need to sight the new moon of Zulqa’ada on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. Corresponding to the 29th day of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar (1445 AH), this date marks the commencement of the search for the new moon.
In the official statement, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu conveyed the Sultan’s instructions to the Muslim Ummah, urging them to actively participate in the sighting process. Muslims across the region are requested to keep a vigilant eye on the sky and report any sightings of the new moon to their nearest District Head. These reports will be relayed to the Sultanate Council for further action.
“This is to inform the Muslims Ummah that Wednesday, 8th May, 2024, which is equivalent to the 29th day of Shawwal 1445 AH, shall be the day to look for the new moon of Zulqa’ada 1445 AH,” the statement read.
The directive underscores the Sultan’s commitment to upholding Islamic traditions and ensuring the accurate determination of important dates in the Islamic calendar. It also reflects the Sultanate’s dedication to fostering unity and cohesion within the Muslim community.
Muslims are urged to heed the Sultan’s call and actively participate in the search for the new moon of Zulqa’ada, as it holds significant religious importance in the Islamic faith.
