With the sighting of the new Crescent of Muharram, the first Islamic month, the Muslim Ummah globally steps into the blessed year of 1447 After Hijrah (A.H.). We begin by thanking Allah for His unending mercy, for granting us life, faith, and the opportunity to witness yet another year of the Islamic calendar.
The Hijrah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was not merely a relocation. It was a divine strategy; a turning point in the annals of humanity which transformed a persecuted minority in Mecca into a dignified, thriving community in Medina. They eventually returned to Makkah not as fugitives, but as victors. It reminds us that, even when things don’t begin well, they can as well end in glory, if anchored on faith, unity, and perseverance.
As we cross into this New Year, the Muslim world finds itself at a critical juncture. From Palestine to Sudan, Kashmir to Xinjiang, the Ummah continues to face unrelenting trials. The agony of our brothers and sisters, especially in Gaza, remains freshly heavy and unbearable in our hearts.
As we cross into #Hijri1447, the Muslim world finds itself at a critical juncture. From #Palestine to #Sudan, #Kashmir to #Xinjiang, the Ummah continues to face unrelenting trials. The agony of our brothers and sisters, especially in #Gaza, remains freshly heavy… full texts👇👇 pic.twitter.com/D6yxorlh6f
— Muslim News Nigeria (@muslimnews_NG) June 26, 2025
The siege on Gaza must be lifted and illegal occupation of Palestine by Israel must end, not just for the survival of the oppressed, but for the peace and stability of the Middle East. Liberation for Palestine and unfettered freedom for humanity. Freedom for Palestine signposts freedom for humanity, yet, freedom cannot be wished into existence; it must be championed, defended, and, when necessary, fought for.
This is why the recent turmoil in the Iran-Israel conflict must awaken Muslim leaders to the urgent necessity of military and strategic power, not for aggression, but for deterrence and defence. The time has come for a united Muslim military alliance that transcends borders. Palestine should not be left to stand alone. Just as the Prophet (SAW) migrated with vision and returned with strength, so too must the Muslim Ummah rise beyond passive solidarity to meaningful, coordinated action.
The Ummah must not only look outward, we must also turn inward. The new Hijrah Year calls on every Muslim, from leaders to average believers, to assess their commitment to the cause of Islam. Our individual roles, no matter how small, matter in building the collective strength of the Ummah. Whether through sincere du’a, consistent advocacy, financial support or professional excellence. Individually, we must be intentional in contributing to the progress and protection of our faith. Just as the Prophet (SAW) relied on a devoted community to establish the City of Madinah as a beacon of Islam, the success of today’s revival also depends on our shared sense of duty and sacrifice.
Furthermore, as the world around us changes rapidly; politically, economically, and technologically, the Muslim world must not lag behind in preparedness. Military might alone is not enough. We need intellectual strength, political power, economic independence and media influence, with strong institutions that are rooted in Islamic values. We must invest in our youths, preserve our identity, and harness modern tools to tell our stories and defend our cause.
The Hijrah was strategic and forward-thinking; so too must be our response to today’s crises. Without bold vision and decisive action, we risk repeating the same cycle of helplessness year after year.
Amidst these challenges, there is hope. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has to resolve to prioritise unity – a resolution that must go beyond communiqué and translate into collective strategy. The disjointed efforts of the past can no longer serve a people so deeply intertwined by faith, fate, and future. Our strength lies not in numbers alone, but in intentional unity.
This New Year, 1447 AH, should not pass as a mere calendar shift. Let it be remembered as a turning point when the Ummah awoke from its slumber, took stock of its losses, examined its wounds and began to heal with purpose. Let it be the year our leaders embraced courage over convenience, and our people chose unity over division. And let it be the year we, as a global Muslim family, honour the legacy of Hijrah not just in words, but through renewed efforts toward justice, peace, and lasting dignity for all Muslims.
As we embrace 1447 AH, let us make it a year of soul-searching and sincere resolve. Let this be the year the Ummah begins to reclaim its voice, dignity, and destiny. The Hijrah teaches us that trials precede triumph and that divine victory comes after effort, patience, and sacrifice. Let us then walk in the footsteps of the Prophet (SAW) with wisdom, courage, and above all, unwavering faith.
May Allah unite our hearts, strengthen our ranks, and grant lasting liberation to all the oppressed Muslims across the world.
Signed: Rasheed Abubakar,
Publisher, Muslim News Nigeria
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