The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially announced that Tuesday, January 20, 2026, will mark the first day of Sha’aban 1447AH.
The declaration was contained in a statement released on Monday, the 19th of January, 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, the 19th of January, 2026, corresponded to the 29th day of Rajab 1447AH, which, in keeping with Islamic tradition, is the day designated for the sighting of the new moon that signals the beginning of Sha’aban.
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Recall that the Sultan had previously declared Monday, the 22nd of December, 2025, as the first day of Rajab 1447AH, thereby ensuring that the crescent sighting for Sha’aban aligns with the Islamic lunar calendar.
The Sultan further urged Muslims across the country to use this period for prayers, peace, and continued devotion to Allah.