Muslims across the country have been directed by the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, to look out for the Ramadan moon after sunset on Wednesday, March 22.
Director of Administration of the council, Arc. Zubairu Haruna Usman-Ugwu, said if the crescent is sighted by Muslims on the said evening, then the Sultan shall declare Thursday, 23rd March, 2023 as the first day of Ramadan 1444 A.H.
The statement read;
“Consequent upon the advice of the National Moon-Sighting Committee (NMSC), the President-General enjoins the Nigerian Muslim Ummah to search for the crescent of Ramadan 1444 A.H. immediately after sunset on Wednesday, 29th Sha’aban, 1444 A.H. which is equivalent to 22nd March, 2022.
“If the crescent is sighted by Muslims of impeccable character on the said evening, then His Eminence shall declare Thursday, 23rd March, 2023 as the first day of Ramadan 1444 A.H.
“If, however, the crescent is not sighted that day, then, Friday, 24th March, 2023 shall automatically become the first day of Ramadan.
“Furthermore, council urges Muslim politicians to display the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity both of which represent some of the core lessons of Ramadan.
“Let those who emerged victorious in the just concluded elections remember that it is the Almighty Allah Who grants power to whom He wishes.
“Also, those who lost should accept same with faith and resist any act that may cause disaffection and disunity within the Ummah.
“Council also appeals to endowed Muslims in the country to extend their acts of charity to the less privileged within their neighbourhoods before, during and after the month of Ramadan. We also admonish traders not to hoard food products or unduly hike the prices of consumer goods during the period of fasting.”