A Sacred Season Begins: Sultan Declares Start of Zulhijja 1446 AH in Nigeria

Nigeria has officially entered one of the holiest periods in the Islamic calendar, as the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, declared Wednesday, May 28, 2025, as the first day of Zulhijja 1446 AH.

The announcement follows the verified sighting of the new crescent moon across various parts of the country, adhering to longstanding Islamic tradition. This declaration sets the stage for the observance of Eid al-Adha, Islam’s Festival of Sacrifice, which will be celebrated nationwide on Friday, June 6—coinciding with the 10th day of Zulhijja.

Zulhijja, the final month of the Islamic lunar year, holds immense spiritual importance. It is the time when millions of Muslims worldwide fulfill the sacred duty of Hajj in Mecca, while others engage in fasting, acts of worship, and preparation for Eid. At its