In a significant announcement, the Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially declared June 28, 2023, as the date for Eid-il Adha or Eid-il Kabir. The declaration was made on Sunday night through a statement released by the National Moonsighting Committee (NMC) on their official Twitter page. Alongside this, the first day of Dhul-Hijjah 1444 AH was declared as Monday, June 19.
The Sultanate Council Sokoto, in accordance with the announcement, has designated Wednesday, June 28, 2023, as the day of Eid-ul-Adha 1444 AH. The revered Sultan, Alhaji Muhammad Sa‘ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, extended his warm wishes for a happy Eid-il Adha Mubarak in advance to the entire Muslim Ummah.
Eid-il-Adha, also known as Eid-il-Kabir, holds great significance in the Islamic calendar, marking the second celebration in the Hijrah calendar. Preceded by Eid-il-Fitr, which concludes the Holy month of Ramadan, Eid-il-Adha encourages Muslims to intensify their acts of worship and earnestly seek Allah’s blessings.
The festival commemorates the story of the Quranic Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. In modern times, this observance involves the ceremonial slaughter of rams by Muslims across the nation.
As Muslims anticipate the arrival of Eid-il Adha, it is a time for increased devotion, reflection, and supplication. The announcement of the specific date allows individuals and communities to prepare for the momentous occasion and carry out their religious duties accordingly. It is an opportunity for Muslims to come together, express gratitude, and partake in acts of charity, fostering unity and strengthening the bonds within the Muslim Ummah.