Sultan Urges Special Prayers as New Islamic Year Begins, Raises Concern Over Nigeria’s Security Challenges
Sokoto, June 16, 2026— The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of Jama’atu Nasril Islam, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has felicitated with Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the commencement of the 1448AH Islamic New Year, while expressing deep concern over the worsening state of insecurity in the country.
In a Hijrah message issued through the JNI National Headquarters, the Sultan said the beginning of Muharram offers Muslims an opportunity to renew their commitment to Allah, engage in self-reflection, and contribute to efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in Nigeria. He noted that insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency, appears to be worsening and requires collective action from citizens and security agencies.
The Sultan reminded Muslims that Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, during which acts of violence and wrongdoing are strictly prohibited. He therefore called on Nigerians to avoid actions that could fuel conflict and division, and emphasized the need for peace, economic growth, and national stability.
As part of efforts to seek divine intervention, he directed Imams across the country to commence _Qunootun-Nawazil_ — special supplications recited during periods of calamity — in the final raka’ah of the five daily obligatory prayers. He also urged that the first Friday congregational prayer of the new Hijrah year be dedicated to fervent prayers for an end to the nation’s security and social challenges.
According to the statement, Imams are encouraged to deliver sermons focused on repentance, unity, and sincere supplication for Allah’s intervention in Nigeria’s affairs, particularly as the latest wave of insecurity continues to challenge existing security measures.
The Sultan further called on Muslims to remain God-conscious, law-abiding, peaceful, industrious, and committed to lawful means of livelihood. He encouraged the observance of the voluntary fasts of Tasu’a and Ashura, scheduled for June 24 and June 25, 2026 respectively, citing the Prophet Muhammad’s teaching that the best fasting after Ramadan is fasting in the month of Muharram.
He also urged Nigerians to continuously seek Allah’s forgiveness, guidance, and protection, describing the Hijrah as a reminder of sacrifice, piety, positive change, and devotion to Allah. While calling on citizens to respect constituted authority, he equally emphasized the responsibility of leaders at all levels to provide fair and effective governance.
The statement was signed by Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, Secretary-General of JNI.
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