Nigerian Muslims Await Moon Sighting: Sultan Of Sokoto Speaks

NSCIA Announces Continuation of Fasting in Nigeria

In a recent update from the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the Sultan of Sokoto, Alh. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has confirmed that fasting across Nigeria will continue into the next day. The reason? The crescent moon that marks the end of Ramadan has not yet been spotted. This announcement was made in a statement issued by the Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, on Saturday, urging Muslims nationwide to keep an eye out for the Shawwal moon.

Understanding the Lunar Calendar and Its Role in Eid Celebrations

The NSCIA emphasized in its statement that the declaration of Eid-El-Fitr, the joyous festival that follows Ramadan, depends entirely on the sighting of the crescent moon. The council made it clear that if the moon is spotted according to the established standards, the Sultan will declare Sunday, March 30, 2025, as the first day of Shawwal and the day of Eid-El-Fitr. This lunar-based system ensures that Muslims around the world celebrate Eid on the correct day, aligning with the traditional Islamic calendar.

Message of Unity and Generosity from the NSCIA

As the Muslim community eagerly awaits the conclusion of Ramadan, the NSCIA extended heartfelt greetings to the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and Muslims worldwide. In a spirit of celebration and gratitude, the council reminded everyone of the importance of Zakatul Fitr, a charitable offering meant to assist those less fortunate. This act of giving, they emphasized, is not just a tradition but a religious obligation meant to foster unity and compassion within the community.

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The statement read, "We beseech Allah to grant everyone the opportunity to witness many more of these blessed days in good health and divine guidance. As we approach the end of Ramadan, let us remember the less fortunate and ensure that Zakatul Fitr is distributed in time. The stipulated practice is to give out the prescribed measurement to beneficiaries in the last two days of Ramadan, but before the Eid prayer."

Local and Global Moon Sighting Updates

While Nigeria continues to wait for confirmation of the Shawwal moon, news from Saudi Arabia brings a different update. The Kingdom has officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the end of Ramadan. This means that Saudi Arabia will celebrate Eid-El-Fitr on Sunday, March 30, 2025. The moon-sighting committee in Saudi Arabia convened after Maghrib prayers and verified the sighting, concluding Ramadan after 29 days of fasting.

"The announcement from Saudi Arabia serves as a reminder of the diversity in moon sightings across different regions, yet it highlights the shared joy and devotion that unite Muslims worldwide," said a representative from the NSCIA. The council encouraged all Nigerian Muslims to remain vigilant and follow local guidelines for moon sighting to ensure accurate and synchronized celebrations.

Looking Ahead: Preparing for Eid Celebrations

As the nation waits for the final word, the NSCIA’s advice is clear: prepare with faith and generosity. Whether it’s distributing Zakatul Fitr or simply reflecting on the lessons of Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the season. The Sultan of Sokoto and his council remind everyone that this is a time for gratitude, prayer, and kindness—a time to come together as one community, united in faith and hope for the future.

In conclusion, while the official end of Ramadan in Nigeria remains pending, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. Let’s take this moment to reflect, give back, and pray for peace and prosperity for all. After all, as the Sultan reminds us, even in hardship, there’s always a promise of ease from the Almighty.