The Sultan of Sokoto and President of the National Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially announced the sighting of the moon, marking the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan 1445AH.
In a statement shared by the National Moonsighting Committee Nigeria, the Sultan urged Muslims nationwide to begin fasting on Monday, March 11, 2024.
“Today, Monday 29th day Sha’aban 1445AH which is equivalent to 10th March 2024, marks the end of Sha’aban 1445 AH. The reports of positive moon were received from Muslim leaders and organizations across the country which we fully accepted.
“Consequently, Monday the 11th day of March 2024 will count as the first day of Ramadan 1445 AH. We therefore, call on Muslims across the country to commence fast accordingly. We call on all Muslims to use the glorious month of Ramadan for extra prayers for our leaders and country, Nigeria.
“We appeal to the well-meaning individuals amongst us to assist the vulnerable and poor with food and other items during this glorious month to cushion the effect of hardship being experienced in the country. May Allah SWT reward our Ibadat with Al-Jannah firdaus. Ramadan Kareem to all Muslims in Nigeria and the world over,” the Sultan declared.
Earlier, the crescent moon, signifying the start of the Holy month of Ramadan, was sighted in Saudi Arabia on Sunday.
“The Crescent of Ramadan 1445/2024 has been sighted in Saudi Arabia! Subsequently, Ramadan 1445/2024 begins tomorrow, 11 March 2024. Taraweeh Prayers will begin in the Two Holy Mosques after Isha Prayers,” announced the Haramain Sharafain in Saudi Arabia.
The sighting of the moon on Sunday evening marks the conclusion of Sha’aban, the eighth month of the Hijri Calendar, and the beginning of the Holy month of Ramadan, which equates to Monday, March 11.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Lunar Islamic calendar in which months span either 29 or 30 days, and commence as well as conclude based on the sighting of the moon.
During this sacred month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, engaging in spiritual reflection, prayer, and acts of charity.
