The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Muslims across Nigeria to begin the search for the new moon of Ramadan on Friday, February 28, 2025.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the Sultan emphasized that the moon sighting would determine the commencement of Ramadan 1446 AH.
“If the crescent is sighted by Muslims of impeccable character after sunset on Friday, March 1, 2025, will be declared as the first day of Ramadan. If the crescent is not sighted, Ramadan will automatically begin on Sunday, March 2, 2025,” the statement read.
Call for Charity Amid Economic Hardship
The Sultan also encouraged wealthy Muslims to extend charity to the less privileged during this period, given the current economic challenges in the country.
Additionally, the council cautioned traders against hoarding essential goods or increasing prices unnecessarily during Ramadan.
Await Official Announcement
Muslims across Nigeria have been urged to look for the Ramadan crescent and await an official announcement from the President-General of the NSCIA regarding the commencement of the fasting period.
The Sultan concluded by praying for a peaceful and rewarding Ramadan for all Muslims.
