The Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His eminence, Alhaji Abubakar Sa’ad III, has declared Saturday, February 13, as the first day of Rajab 1442 AH.
The Sultan had earlier called on all Muslims in Nigeria to look out for the crescent of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar, after sunset on Friday, February 12, 2021.
The statement issued on Friday by the National Moon Sighting Committee of the NSCIA said, “Today is Friday 29th JUMADAL-THANI 1442AH/12th, February 2021. It’s also the first day to look for the Rajab 1442H crescent.
“Please kindly endeavour to look for the crescent today after sunset or ask someone to do so on your behalf and kindly forward the results of your observation whether positive or negative. Indicate your name, location, and time of observation. If possible, look for the crescent in a group,” it stated.
Muslim News gathered that the new crescent was later sighted in some parts of Nigeria, including Gambaki Katagum, Misau, Bauchi, Nafada, and Abeokuta.
Announcing on behalf of the Sultan of Sokoto, Sarkin Malaman Sokoto, Secretary MSC, Malam Yahaya Muhammad Boyi said, “Following several reports of positive sightings of Rajab 1442H crescent from different locations across the country, the Sultanate Council, Sokoto has declared Saturday 13/2/2021 as the first day of Rajab 1442 AH.
The sighting of the moon of Rajab has seen Nigerian Muslims jubilating, waiting for the arrival of Ramadan, the month of fasting, which is calculated to begin in the next 60 days.
Muslim News’ findings revealed that many Muslims beautify their social media handles with inspiring messages about the sanctity of Rajab, as they begin the countdown to Ramadan 1442 AH.
Tonight Marks the beginning of the month of Rajab the year 1442AH which is from the 4 months in which Allah has made scared.
Remember the good that is done during these months are greater in reward, likewise the evil that is done is greater in comparison to the other months.
— Abdullahi Hassan (@ahassan_1421) February 12, 2021
https://twitter.com/Bahsheer/status/1360346397296513028?s=19
https://twitter.com/sidk24/status/1360588361895968769?s=19
