Abuja, December 22, 2025 – Clarion Newschannel
His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially declared Monday, December 22, 2025, as the first day of Rajab 1447 AH.
The announcement follows the failure to sight the new crescent moon for Rajab on Saturday, December 20, 2025, which corresponded to the 29th of Jumada al-Thani (also referred to as Jumada Assaniya) 1447 AH.
In a statement signed by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, it was confirmed that the National Moon Sighting Committee, in conjunction with various regional moon sighting committees across Nigeria, received no credible reports of the crescent being sighted.
As a result, Sunday, December 21, 2025, marked the completion of the 30th day of Jumada al-Thani 1447 AH, paving the way for the commencement of the sacred month of Rajab.
Rajab, the seventh month in the Islamic lunar calendar, is one of the four sacred months in Islam during which warfare is traditionally forbidden. It holds special significance as a time for increased devotion, reflection, voluntary fasting, and spiritual preparation in the lead-up to the holy months of Sha’ban and Ramadan.
Muslims across Nigeria are encouraged to devote this period to heightened worship, charity, and supplications for peace and progress in the country.
Clarion Newschannel wishes the Muslim Ummah a blessed Rajab.
Sultan of Sokoto Declares Start of Sacred Month of Rajab 1447 AH Amid No Crescent Sighting
