As the sacred month of Ramadan draws near, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Muslims across Nigeria to keep their eyes on the sky.
Beginning Friday, the 28th of February, 2025, faithful observers are urged to search for the crescent moon a sighting that will signal the commencement of the holiest month in Islam.
In an official statement from the Sultanate Council of Sokoto, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Islamic Religious Affairs, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto, reaffirmed the significance of moon sighting in aligning the Islamic lunar calendar.
He emphasized that anyone who catches a glimpse of the new moon should promptly report their observation to the nearest district or village head, ensuring the information reaches the Sultan.
This date coincides with the 29th of Sha’aban 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar, a crucial period when Muslim communities worldwide anticipate the arrival of Ramadan.
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The practice of moon sighting has long been a unifying tradition, ensuring a synchronized start to the holy month across the nation.
Once confirmed, the sighting of the crescent moon will herald the beginning of Ramadan a time of spiritual reflection, fasting from dawn to dusk, increased devotion, and acts of charity.
As Nigeria’s foremost Islamic leader, the Sultan continues to champion this time-honored tradition, encouraging all Muslims to participate actively in the observation and timely reporting of the new moon.