The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Thursday, July 16, as the first day of Safar 1448 After Hijrah.

The declaration followed the non-sighting of the new crescent moon across the country on Tuesday, corresponding to the 29th day of Muharram.

In a statement issued by the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, the National Moonsighting Committee said it received no authenticated report confirming the sighting of the Safar crescent from any part of Nigeria.

Consequently, Wednesday, July 15, was declared the 30th day of Muharram, while Thursday marks the beginning of the new Islamic month of Safar.

The announcement serves as the official guide for Muslims across Nigeria in observing religious activities in line with the Islamic calendar.