Daily Dates Nigeria recalls that the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, officially declared Tuesday, June 16, 2026, as the first day of Muharram 1448 AH, marking the start of the new Islamic year in Nigeria.

For the year 1448 AH (2026), Ashura is expected to fall on Thursday, June 25, 2026, while Tasu’a is expected to be observed on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, subject to local moon sighting confirmations.

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is one of Islam’s four sacred months and offers believers an opportunity for reflection, worship and renewed devotion at the beginning of a new spiritual year.

Among the notable observances during this sacred period are Tasu’a and Ashura, days associated with fasting, remembrance and gratitude to Allah.

Islamic tradition records that Ashura commemorates the day Allah granted deliverance to Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers from Pharaoh. It is reported that when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) learned of the significance of the day, he observed fasting and encouraged Muslims to do the same.

One of the most widely cited sayings of the Prophet (SAW) on the virtue of the day is:

“Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope from Allah, will expiate the sins of the previous year.”
— Sahih Muslim

Islamic scholars explain that this refers to the forgiveness of minor sins and reflects the spiritual rewards attached to voluntary acts of worship.

The observance of Tasu’a on the 9th of Muharram alongside Ashura on the 10th also follows Prophetic guidance. It is reported that the Prophet (SAW) expressed his intention to fast an additional day alongside Ashura, leading scholars to recommend observing both days where possible.

For many Muslim faithful, these days extend beyond abstaining from food and drink. They represent moments for increased prayer, recitation of the Qur’an, acts of charity and personal reflection as individuals set spiritual goals for the new Islamic year.

Across communities, mosques and Islamic organisations are expected to use the season to reinforce values of peace, discipline, compassion and devotion — principles that remain central to Islamic teachings.

The beginning of 1448 AH also recalls the Hijrah — the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Madinah — an event that marks the commencement of the Islamic calendar and symbolises faith, sacrifice and renewal.

As Muslims observe Tasu’a and Ashura, the period offers an opportunity to embrace the lessons of patience, gratitude and a renewed commitment to spiritual growth in the year ahead.

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His nomination was transmitted to the Senate on Tuesday in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

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