Sultan of Sokoto Declares Tuesday as Start of Islamic New Year 1448AH

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar, has officially announced Tuesday, June 16, as the first day of Muharram, marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year 1448 After Hijra (AH) in Nigeria.

The declaration was communicated through an official statement released on Monday in Sokoto by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council. Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, signals the commencement of a new year for Muslims worldwide.

In response to the announcement, the Sokoto State Government declared Tuesday a public holiday, granting residents the opportunity to observe and celebrate the occasion. The announcement was conveyed through a statement by Abubakar Bawa, Director-General of Media and Publicity to Governor Ahmed Aliyu.

Governor Aliyu used the occasion to call on the people of Sokoto State to offer fervent prayers for lasting peace and an end to the persistent insecurity plaguing parts of the state and the nation at large. He described the security crisis as a critical obstacle to national development and stressed that tackling it requires a united, collective effort.

"The Federal and State Governments are doing their best through sustained support to security agencies in the fight against banditry and other forms of criminality in the state," the Governor stated. "We need to understand that securing our country is a collective responsibility in which every patriotic citizen must play a role."

Aliyu reaffirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to backing security forces in combating banditry and criminal activities across the state.

On the spiritual significance of the new Islamic year, Governor Aliyu urged Muslims to engage in deep reflection and self-evaluation — identifying their achievements and areas needing growth. He encouraged the faithful to seek repentance and Allah's forgiveness, reminding them that "Allah is Most Forgiving and Most Merciful," and pledged his administration's continued support for Islamic propagation and religious activities in the state.

The Governor concluded by extending warm wishes to Muslims in Sokoto State and across Nigeria, praying for a peaceful, prosperous, and rewarding New Islamic Year 1448AH.