The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Dec. 20 as the first day of the Islamic month of Rabi’u Asani, 1439 AH.
The declaration was contained in a statement issued in Sokoto on Wednesday by Prof. Sambo Junaidu, Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto.
It said:”The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs,in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, did not receive any reports from various moon sighting committees across the country confirming the sighting of the new moon of Rabi’u Asani 1439 AH on Monday, which was the 29th day of Rabi’u Awwal , 1439 AH.
”’The Sultan and President-General, Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Nigeria (NSCIA), has accepted the reports and accordingly declared Wednesday, 20th December, 2017 as the first day of Rabi’u Asani, 1439 AH.
”The sultan wishes all Muslims, a happy new Month. May Allah (SWT) accept our religious deeds.”
It urged all citizens to care, love and protect one another, adding that the Islamic virtues of unity, peace and honesty should be imbibed all Muslims. (NAN)