By Our Correspondent
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Friday, August 14, 2026, as the first day of Rabi’ul Awwal 1448 AH following the confirmed sighting of the new crescent across several parts of Nigeria.
The declaration marks the official commencement of Rabi’ul Awwal, a month of profound spiritual and historical significance to Muslims around the world and one widely associated with major events in the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The announcement followed credible reports of the Rabi’ul Awwal crescent received on Thursday, August 13, which corresponded with the 29th day of Safar 1448 AH. The reports were submitted by authorised moon-sighting committees across the country and subjected to the required religious verification before being presented to the Sultan.
After reviewing and accepting the reports, Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar approved Friday, August 14, as 1 Rabi’ul Awwal 1448 AH in Nigeria.
The development provides Muslims nationwide with the official date for the commencement of the new Islamic month and will guide religious institutions, scholars, communities and individuals in planning activities associated with Rabi’ul Awwal.
The Sultanate Council has urged Muslims across the country to take note of the declaration and conduct their religious activities in accordance with the commencement of the new month.
Rabi’ul Awwal occupies a special place in the hearts of Muslims because of its connection with significant moments in the history of Islam, particularly events associated with Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The confirmed crescent sighting and subsequent declaration by the Sultan also highlight the importance of the traditional moon-sighting process in determining the beginning of Islamic lunar months in Nigeria.
As Muslims across the country welcome Rabi’ul Awwal 1448 AH, the occasion offers an opportunity for renewed faith, reflection, compassion, unity and commitment to the values of peace and good character.
Friday, August 14, 2026, therefore marks the official beginning of Rabi’ul Awwal 1448 AH in Nigeria, following the confirmed crescent sighting and approval by the Sultan of Sokoto.
