The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Monday, August 25, 2025, as the first day of Rabi’ul Awwal 1447AH.

The announcement was contained in a statement by the Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu. He explained that the decision followed reports from the National Moon Sighting Committee, which confirmed that no sighting of the new crescent was received across the country on Saturday, August 23—corresponding to the 29th of Safar, 1447AH.

Consequently, Sunday, August 24, will complete 30 days of Safar, making Monday the beginning of Rabi’ul Awwal.

Meanwhile, controversy is brewing in the Senate over a bill seeking to designate the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife as permanent Co-Chairmen of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria.

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has strongly opposed the move, describing it as discriminatory and unjust.

In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ezechi Chukwu, the group argued that the bill—already at second reading—marginalises other ethnic nationalities and violates the principles of fairness, equity, and federal character as enshrined in the constitution.

“Ohanaeze is astounded by the rationale behind this proposal, which clearly disregards the spirit of inclusivity and justice,” the statement read.