The monarch made the announcement through a statement by the Wazirin Sokoto and chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Wali Junaido.

It read: “The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs in conjunction with the National Committee on Moon Sighting did not receive any report from various moon sighting committees across the Country confirming the New Moon of Rajab 1439AH, on Saturday 17th March 2019 which was the 29th day of Jimada 1439AH."

“His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and president general, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has accepted the report, and accordingly, declared Monday 19th March 2018 as the first day of Rajab 1439AH.”

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What is Rajab?

The word ‘Rajab’ is derived from ‘Rajaba’, which means “to respect.” It is the seventh month of the Islamic calendar.

It is one of the four sacred months in Islam and a prelude to the Holy Month of Ramadan.

During Rajab, battles and all forms of conflict are prohibited and Muslims are expected to be peaceful throughout.

Muslims are also expected to observe recommended acts of worship like fasting, zikr (remembering God), giving to the poor and the needy.

These acts prepare Muslims for the month of Ramadan.