The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has declared the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1448 AH, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, resilience, and collective action amid worsening insecurity and economic challenges.
NSCIA President-General Congratulates Muslims
NSCIA President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the new Hijrah year. He urged them to draw inspiration from the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), describing it as a timeless symbol of faith, sacrifice, perseverance, and trust in Allah.
Concern Over Nigeria's Situation
The NSCIA expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s current situation, calling it one of the most difficult periods in recent history. Widespread insecurity, economic hardship, and growing uncertainty continue to threaten national stability and citizens’ well-being. In a statement by Public Affairs Officer Abbas Jimoh, the council condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers, warning that such incidents pose a serious threat to the nation’s future and require urgent action.
Kano Governor Urges Moral Rebirth
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State urged Muslims to embrace sacrifice and moral rebirth in the new Islamic year. In a statement by his spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa, Yusuf described the period as one for deep reflection, gratitude, and renewed dedication to peaceful coexistence and societal progress.
Saudi Arabia Unveils New Kaaba Kiswa
Meanwhile, authorities in Saudi Arabia unveiled the multi-million-dollar Holy Kaaba Kiswa, the black silk covering the most sacred site in Haram, Makkah, as part of an annual ritual. The process, coordinated by the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, took a specialized team of Saudi experts several hours. The new Kiswa was transported from the King Abdulaziz Complex to the Grand Mosque under a carefully coordinated operational framework meeting international standards.
Saudi craftsmen continue to preserve the heritage and artistic excellence of the Kiswa through hand weaving, producing specialized decorative pieces requiring exceptional precision. After dyeing, weaving, testing, printing, embroidery, hand weaving, and assembly, the components are brought together to form the complete Kiswa before installation on the Holy Kaaba.
