The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, has officially confirmed the sighting of the Dhul-Hijjah crescent moon, marking Monday, May 18, as the first day of Dhul-Hijjah 1447 in the Islamic calendar. This announcement was made on Monday, May 18, 2026, as reported by Leadership newspaper.
Official Declaration
The Sultan, who also serves as the president-general of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), conveyed the declaration through a statement issued by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Wazirin Sokoto and chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sokoto Sultanate Council. The statement confirmed that the successful sighting of the moon marks the commencement of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, regarded as one of the holiest periods in Islam.
Significance of Dhul Hijjah
The Sultanate Council noted that the sacred month is significant for Muslims worldwide as it coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage and the celebration of the 2026 Eid Al Adha (Eid al-Kabir). The statement read: "With this declaration, Muslims in Nigeria and beyond will begin preparations for the sacred rites and celebrations associated with Zulhijja, including the Eid Al Adha festival, which is expected to fall on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 (10th Dhul Hijja), subject to confirmation."
Call for Prayers and Unity
The Council urged the Muslim Ummah to use the spiritual season for prayers, reflection, and renewed devotion, while also praying for peace, unity, and prosperity in Nigeria. Furthermore, it advised members of the public to rely only on official communications from the Sultanate Council and recognised Islamic authorities for updates regarding the observance of the season.
Saudi Arabia's Announcement
Earlier, Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court announced that Monday, May 18, 2026, will mark the start of Dhul-Hijjah. According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), pilgrims performing Hajj will stand at Arafat on Tuesday, May 26, corresponding to Dhul-Hijjah 9, while Eid Al Adha 2026 will begin the following day on Wednesday, May 27. Eid Al Adha, one of the most important holidays in Islam, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God before God provided a ram to sacrifice instead, according to Islamic tradition.
