By By Habeeb Ibrahim
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, who is also the President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has officially declared Friday, June 7, 2024, as the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah 1445 AH.
This announcement was made in a statement released by the National Moon Sighting Committee, signed by its Secretary, Malam Yahaya Muhammad Boyi.
According to the statement, the Sultan’s declaration indicates that Sunday, June 16, 2024, will be the day of Eidul Adha 1445 AH.
“The Sultan of Sokoto has declared Friday, June 7, 2024, as the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah 1445 AH,” Malam Boyi said.
The Sultan had previously directed Muslims to search for the new moon of Dhu al-Hijjah 1445 AH after sunset on Thursday, as stated in a statement by Prof Salisu Shehu, the Deputy Secretary-General of the council.
Prior to the announcement, the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia had earlier announced Friday, June 7, as the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah, after sighting the new crescent in the Kingdom on Thursday night. “Arafat Day falls on Saturday, June 15, while Sunday, June 16, will be the first day of Eid al-Adha,” the Saudi Arabia Supreme Court noted in a statement.
Consequently, Arafat Day will fall on Saturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16, will be the first day of Eid al-Adha.
