The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Abubakar, has declared Monday, December 22, 2025, as the first day of Rajab 1447 AH.

The declaration was contained in a statement released on Saturday, signed by the Wazirin Sokoto, Prof Sambo Junaidu.

According to the statement, “The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, did not receive any report from various moon sighting committees across the country confirming the sighting of the crescent of Rajab 1447 AH on Saturday, 20th December, 2025, equivalent to 29th Jumada Assaniya 1447 AH."

“Therefore, Sunday, 21st December, 2025, will be 30th Jumada Assaniya, 1447 AH.”

The statement noted that, based on this development, the Sultan subsequently approved Monday, December 22, 2025, as the first day of Rajab 1447 AH.

Rajab is the seventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar, preceding Sha‘ban (8th) and Ramadan (9th)

It is known as one of the four sacred months during which fighting is forbidden and good deeds are magnified.

It is regarded as a significant time for spiritual preparation for Ramadan, a period for increased worship, seeking forgiveness, and reflection, leading up to the holy month.