Sultan Directs Muslims to Search for Rabi’ al-Thani Crescent on September 11

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has directed Muslims across Nigeria to search for the crescent marking the beginning of Rabi’ al-Thani 1448 AH on Friday, September 11, 2026.

The directive was contained in a statement signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Sultanate’s Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu.

According to the statement, Friday, September 11, falls on the 29th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal 1448 AH, making it the appropriate date for the nationwide crescent-sighting exercise.

The Sultan urged Muslims to look out for the new moon immediately after sunset and report any confirmed sighting through the established traditional authorities.

Anyone who sights the crescent is expected to promptly inform the nearest Village or District Head, who will transmit the report through the appropriate channels to the Sultan.

The Sultanate stressed the need for credible and accurate reports, noting that all reported sightings would be verified and authenticated before any official announcement is made.

It also cautioned Muslims against spreading unverified claims or making premature announcements, urging those participating in the exercise to do so with sincerity, seriousness and a strong sense of religious responsibility.

The confirmation of the crescent will pave the way for the Sultan to officially announce the commencement of Rabi’ al-Thani 1448 AH.

The directive is expected to mobilise Muslims, traditional rulers and Islamic authorities across the country for the nationwide crescent-sighting exercise.