However, in Nigeria, the formal pronouncement is still awaited from the Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar III. On Saturday, the Sultan had urged Muslims in the country to be on the lookout for the new moon of Dhul-Hijjah 1444 AH from Sunday.
The sighting of the new crescent holds significant importance in determining the start of the Islamic month and the subsequent observances. The Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah is particularly significant as it precedes the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. Arafat Day, which falls on Tuesday, June 27, is a crucial day during Hajj, as pilgrims gather in the plain of Arafat to engage in supplication and reflection. The following day, Wednesday, June 28, marks the beginning of Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, which is celebrated by Muslims worldwide.
As the Nigerian Muslim community awaits the official pronouncement by the Sultan of Sokoto, individuals and communities are advised to remain observant and adhere to the guidance provided by the relevant religious authorities. The announcement of the sighting of the new moon will determine the specific dates for the observances in Nigeria.
The sighting of the crescent moon is an important tradition in Islam and is done through visual observation. Local religious authorities, such as the Sultanate and Islamic councils, play a crucial role in confirming the sighting and determining the start of Islamic months and festivities. The process involves trained individuals looking for the faint crescent moon shortly after sunset, and their testimonies are then evaluated by the religious authorities.
The declaration of the start of Dhul-Hijjah and the subsequent dates for Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha hold significant importance for Muslims worldwide. These observances provide an opportunity for spiritual reflection, devotion, and communal celebration, as believers embark on the Hajj pilgrimage and participate in acts of worship and sacrifice.
It is anticipated that the Sultan of Sokoto and President of the NSCIA will soon make an official announcement based on the sighting of the new moon in Nigeria. The Muslim community in the country will then prepare for the upcoming observances, following the guidance of the religious authorities.