The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Dr. Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially announced that Ramadan 1446 AH will commence on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Nigeria.
Delivering the announcement in a national broadcast on Friday, the Sultan confirmed that the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan had been sighted in multiple locations across the country. Reports from various Muslim communities and religious organizations were received and authenticated by the National Moon Sighting Committee before the final declaration was made.
“Following thorough verification and confirmation by both the National and State Moon Sighting Committees, it has been established that the new moon of Ramadan has been sighted, signifying the conclusion of Sha’aban 1446 AH,” he stated.
As a result, he urged all Muslims across Nigeria to commence their fasting on Saturday, March 1, and to dedicate themselves to acts of worship, prayer, and self-discipline throughout this sacred period. He also encouraged prayers for national unity, peace, and stability, emphasizing the need for devotion and sincerity during the holy month.
The Sultan further called on affluent individuals to extend generosity to those in need, reinforcing the significance of charity and social responsibility. He stressed the importance of religious harmony and encouraged Nigerians to foster mutual respect and unity, regardless of their religious affiliations.
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In his message, he prayed for divine guidance and strength for national leaders, urging them to remain committed to serving the country with integrity and wisdom.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a period of obligatory fasting, during which adult Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations from dawn until sunset, with the intention of seeking nearness to Allah.
Nutritionists have highlighted the importance of maintaining a balanced diet during Ramadan, advising Muslims to consume nutrient-rich meals during Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (meal to break the fast) to sustain energy levels and promote overall well-being.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that fasting is one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam, symbolizing self-discipline, spiritual purification, and a deeper connection with Allah.