New Hijrah: Sultan urges prayers, renewed faith amid insecurity

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Nigerian Muslims to intensify prayers and renew their commitment to God in response to the country’s worsening security challenges.

The Sultan made the call in a message to commemorate the beginning of the Islamic New Year, 1448AH, marking Tuesday as the first day of Muharram.

In a statement issued by the Secretary-General of JNI, Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, the Sultan congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world on the commencement of the new Hijrah year and prayed for peace and divine blessings.

He urged Muslims to use the occasion for reflection, repentance and renewed dedication to the worship of Allah.

According to him, Nigerians must collectively support security agencies and contribute to efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the country.

The Sultan expressed concern over the prevailing insecurity, saying the situation required both spiritual and practical responses from citizens.

He noted that Muharram is one of Islam’s four sacred months during which believers are encouraged to refrain from wrongdoing and promote peace.

The Sultan therefore appealed to citizens to avoid actions capable of escalating tension and instead embrace peaceful coexistence in the interest of national unity, economic growth and security.

He also directed Imams leading the five daily prayers across the country to commence Qunootun-Nawazil—special supplications observed during periods of calamity.

The Sultan further urged that Friday’s congregational prayers be dedicated to seeking divine intervention against kidnapping, banditry, insurgency and other social challenges confronting the nation.

He encouraged Imams to deliver sermons focused on moral reawakening and prayers for peace and national recovery.

The Sultan also advised Muslims to remain law-abiding, industrious and committed to lawful means of livelihood.

He called on adherents to observe the voluntary fast of Tasu’a and Ashura scheduled for June 24 and June 25, in line with Islamic teachings on the virtues of fasting during Muharram.

According to him, the Hijrah period symbolises sacrifice, piety, positive change and respect for constituted authority, while leaders at all levels should ensure equitable and people-centred governance.

He prayed for Allah’s mercy and guidance and expressed hope that the new Islamic year would bring peace, prosperity and stability to Nigeria and the global Muslim community.