By Hassan Hussain
Nscla Urges Muslims And Nigerians To Embrace Spiritual Renewal, Unity And Collective Action For Peace And Development As Muharram 1448 Ah Begins Amid Security And Economic Challenges..
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, has called on Muslims and Nigerians at large to embrace renewed faith, peaceful co-existence and commitment to national development as the Islamic New Year, Muharram 1448 AH, begins.
The Council, under the leadership of its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world on the commencement of the new Islamic calendar year.
In a statement by its Public Affairs Officer, Mallam Abbas Jimoh, the NSCIA said the new year provides an opportunity for reflection on the lessons of the Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad, SAW, which represents sacrifice, perseverance, resilience, unity and trust in Almighty Allah.
The Council had earlier directed Muslims to commence moon sighting for Muharram on Monday, 15th June 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH.
Following confirmation from the National Moon Sighting Committees across the country, the NSCIA declared Tuesday, 16th June 2026, as the first day of Muharram 1448 AH.
Mallam Jimoh said the occasion should encourage spiritual renewal, compassion, justice and greater commitment to serving humanity.
He, however, expressed concern over the security and economic challenges confronting the country, noting that Nigerians are passing through difficult times.
The NSCIA decried persistent threats to lives and property, including banditry in the North-West, insurgency in the North-East and kidnapping incidents affecting different parts of the country.
The Council described the recent abductions involving pupils and teachers as a matter of national concern requiring urgent and sincere action.
It also acknowledged the economic difficulties faced by many Nigerians, including rising living costs, food inflation and unemployment.
While commending ongoing government reforms, the Council urged authorities to strengthen support measures and economic inclusion programmes to assist vulnerable citizens.
“Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear. Leaders must uphold justice, accountability and good governance in the fight against insecurity and corruption.”
— NSCIA, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs
The NSCIA called on Nigerians across religious and ethnic divides to reject divisive narratives, stressing that insecurity affects everyone and requires collective solutions.
It urged the government to sustain dialogue with stakeholders, while encouraging religious leaders, traditional institutions and community influencers to promote tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful engagement.
The Council also stressed that development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear, urging leaders to uphold justice, accountability and good governance in the fight against insecurity and corruption.
It called on security agencies, government institutions, traditional leaders and citizens to intensify efforts towards restoring peace and security across the country.
The NSCIA further appealed to political leaders to place national interest above partisan considerations, warning against actions and statements capable of weakening unity and social cohesion.
As Muslims begin the Hijrah year, the Council encouraged increased devotion through prayers, charity and acts of kindness.
It prayed for lasting peace, security, prosperity and sustainable development for Nigeria, while wishing Muslims a peaceful and spiritually rewarding Muharram 1448 AH.
