The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III has declared Monday, 11th March as the first day of the Ramadan fast in Nigeria.
The Sultan, who is also the President of the National Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), announced the sighting of the new crescent in Sokoto on Sunday in a radio and television broadcast.
He said the new moon was sighted in different parts of the country and that the reports were received from Muslim leaders and Islamic Organisations around the country.
“After due verification and authentication by the national moon sighting committee and states committees’ confirmation, as well as routine scrutiny, I hereby announce the sighting of the new moon of Ramadan which signifies the end of Sha’aban 1445 AH.
”In accordance with Islamic law, Muslim Ummah is to commence fasting on Monday the 11th of March 2024 accordingly”, the revered religious leader stated.
He enjoined Muslim faithful to devote themselves fully to the worship of Allah throughout the holy month while urging them to use the period to pray for peace, progress, and prosperity of the country.
“We call on all Nigerians to continue to live peacefully with one another irrespective of religious, ethenic or tribal difference”, he said.
The Sultan further urged wealthy individuals to assist the poor and stressed the need for increased religious tolerance and brotherhood among citizens.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar in which Muslim faithfuls observe one month fast.
Fasting in the month of Ramadan is a religious obligation compulsory on all adult Muslims.
Earlier on its X platform, @Haramaininfo, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced the sighting of the lunar month of Ramadan, which will pave the way for the beginning of the Islamic lengthy fasting.
The tweets partly read: “Crescent of Ramadan 1445/2024 has been sighted in Saudi Arabia!
“Subsequently, Ramadan 1445/2024 begins tomorrow, 11th March 2024.
“Taraweeh Prayers will begin in the Two Holy Mosques after Isha Prayers”.
