The Sultan of Sokoto and President General Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs in Nigeria, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar lll has declared Wednesday 19 July 2023 as the first day of Muharram 1444 After Hijra
This was contained in a press statement issued and made available to newsmen in sokoto, by the chairman, Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on moon sighting, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu
The statement further explained that this was sequel to fact that the committee did not receive report from any quarters confirming the moon sighting on Monday being the 29th Dhul- hijja and consequent upon that Tuesday was declared 30th of Zulhijja 1444
The statement read,”This is to inform our Muslims brothers and sisters that yesterday Monday being the 17th of July which which equivalent to the 29 of Dhul-Hijjah 1444 AH, the committee did not receive any Report from the various Moon sighting committees across the country confirming the sighting of the crescent of Muharram .”
The committee stated that His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto , Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar lll has accepted the report and accordingly declared Wednesday as the first day of Muharram
“Consequent upon that, Tuesday being the 18th of July 2023 is the 30th of Dhul-Hijja and Wednesday being the 19th of July is the 1st Day of Muharram and First Day of Islamic Calendar” it stated
