The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on the Muslim Ummah across the country to look out for the crescent moon on Friday, 28th February 2025, to determine the commencement of the 1446 AH Ramadan fast.
The announcement was made in a statement signed by the Secretary-General of NSCIA, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, (Kuliyan Sokoto), on behalf of the President-General of the Council and Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.
According to the Council, the moon sighting will mark the end of Sha’aban 1446 AH and the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. If the crescent is sighted by Muslims of impeccable character on Friday, Saturday, 1st March 2025, will be declared as the first day of Ramadan. However, if the moon is not sighted, Sunday, 2nd March 2025, will automatically be the first day of fasting.
The Council encouraged Muslims to report credible sightings to established Islamic leaders in their localities or designated members of the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC).
In light of the prevailing economic challenges, NSCIA urged wealthy Muslims to extend charity to the less privileged and advised traders against hoarding and hiking prices of essential goods during the fasting period.
The Council prayed for Allah’s guidance and blessings for all Muslims during the holy month and wished the Ummah a peaceful and rewarding Ramadan.
“Allahuma Baligna Ramadan. Amin.”
