Abuja – Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has announced that Monday is the 10th of Muharram, first month of Islamic Calendar year 1433.

A statement issued in Abuja by Dr AbdulLateef Adegbite, Secretary General of NSCIA, said that Sunday was the 9th of Muharram, 1433 A.H.

“Based on the physical sighting of the Crescent of Muharam 1433 on Nov. 25, NSCIA hereby confirms that Sunday, Dec. 4, is the 9th Day of Muharam 1433AH. Therefore, Monday, Dec. 5, is the 10th Day of Muharam, that is, Ashuraa Day 1433AH.”

The Islamic leader urged all Muslims to pray and fast for the peace and development of Nigeria in line with the practice of Prophet Muhammed.

“All Muslims are enjoined to fast on Ashuraa Day and pray for the peace, security, stability and well-being of Nigeria.”

The new Islamic calendar year started on Nov. 25 with series of activities by various Islamic groups in Abuja, including the Coalition of Muslim Organisations (COMO) and Muslim Consultative Forum (MCF).

The 9th and 10^th of the first month of Islamic calendar are sacred days where Muslims are implored by the Prophet to pray and fast, as such prayers are accepted by Allah. (NAN)