The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially declared Tuesday, January 20, 2026, as the first day of Sha’aban 1447AH for Muslims across Nigeria. The announcement followed the conclusion of the moon sighting exercise conducted on Monday evening.

In a statement released by the National Moon Sighting Committee and endorsed by the Sultanate Council, the declaration confirmed that the new Islamic month commenced after verified reports of the crescent moon were received from different parts of the country. The Sultan urged Nigerian Muslims to begin the month with prayers, reflection, and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Sha’aban is the eighth month in the Islamic calendar and holds special spiritual significance as it precedes the holy month of Ramadan. For many Muslims, it is a period dedicated to increased acts of worship, fasting, and preparation for Ramadan.

According to the statement, the Sultanate Council received credible moon sighting reports from designated observers nationwide, in line with Islamic tradition and established guidelines. Upon verification, the Sultan formally approved the declaration, making Tuesday the official start of Sha’aban.

The Sultan congratulated Nigerian Muslims on the commencement of the new month and reminded them of its importance in strengthening faith and unity within the Ummah. He also called on Islamic scholars and leaders to use the period to promote messages of peace, tolerance, and compassion.

Religious leaders across the country welcomed the announcement, noting that the early declaration allows Muslims to properly plan their spiritual activities ahead of Ramadan. Mosques and Islamic centres are expected to intensify sermons and programmes focused on preparation for fasting, charity, and self-discipline.

Sha’aban occupies a unique place in Islamic tradition, as it is the month during which Muslims prepare spiritually and mentally for Ramadan. Many faithful observe voluntary fasts during Sha’aban, following the practice of Prophet Muhammad, and engage in increased prayers and acts of kindness.

Islamic scholars often describe Sha’aban as a bridge between Rajab and Ramadan, offering believers the opportunity to reflect on their actions and strengthen their relationship with God before the fasting season begins. In Nigeria, the declaration of Sha’aban also signals the gradual buildup toward Ramadan, which has wide social and economic implications across the country.

Following the Sultan’s announcement, messages flooded social media, with Muslims sharing prayers and well wishes for a spiritually rewarding month. Some users expressed gratitude for the clarity provided by the Sultanate Council, while others began counting down to Ramadan.

The Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs also used the opportunity to appeal to Muslims to continue praying for the nation, particularly for peace, stability, and economic progress. The Sultan emphasized that unity and mutual respect remain essential values, especially during sacred periods.

As Sha’aban 1447AH begins, attention will soon turn to the sighting of the Ramadan crescent, which will determine the start of the fasting month. Until then, Islamic leaders are encouraging believers to use this time to prepare both spiritually and socially, ensuring that Ramadan is observed with sincerity and discipline.