The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of its President-General, Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged Muslims nationwide to observe the Sha’aban 1445AH crescent.
Scheduled after sunset on Saturday, 29th Rajab, 1445AH which corresponds to February 10, 2024, the observation marks a crucial preparatory phase preceding the upcoming Ramadan fasting period.
In a statement by NSCIA’s Deputy Secretary-General, Prof Salisu Shehu, the significance of this lunar observation in the Islamic calendar was underscored.
Sha’aban, which is the eighth month, heralds the imminent arrival of Ramadan, the ninth month, synonymous with fasting for Muslims globally.
The announcement serves as a spiritual call-to-action, urging Nigeria’s Muslim community to prepare mentally and spiritually for Ramadan, emphasizing the collective and observant ethos intrinsic to Islam.
Prof Shehu clarified, “Scientifically, the anticipated moon conjunction is on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 11:59 pm. It’s noteworthy that moon sighting typically occurs well after the conjunction, influenced by various environmental factors.”
