By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The council, in a statement signed by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, the Waziri of Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, and released to journalists on Tuesday, urged Muslims nationwide to begin moon sighting and report any sightings to their nearest District or Village Head.
The statement instructed that these reports should be forwarded to Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto, for official confirmation.
The statement ended with a prayer: “May Allah (SWT) help us in the discharge of this religious duty. Amen.”
The sighting and announcement of the new moon of Sha’aban holds great significance in Islam, marking the beginning of the month preceding Ramadan and allowing Muslims to prepare for the upcoming holy month of fasting.
The Sultanate Council’s announcement underscores its longstanding tradition of declaring moon sightings, providing guidance for Muslims to follow Islamic teachings and observe religious obligations.
Muslims are advised to stay informed about important updates through their local religious leaders and official announcements from the Sultanate Council.