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, has urged the Muslims across the Nigeria to look out for the crescent moon after sunset on Wednesday which if sighted will mean the beginning and commencement of the long awaited Ramadan. If, however, the crescent is not sighted that day, then, Friday, 24th March, 2023 shall automatically become the first day of Ramadan,
According to the Director of Administration of the council, Arc. Zubairu Haruna Usman-Ugwu, who said as approved by 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.
He also urged Muslim to report any credible and positive sighting of the crescent of Ramadan 1444 AH to the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC)
The council enjoins all Muslims to be more prayerful unto Allah, especially in the month of Ramadan; that He should grant the nation peace, stability, unity and progress in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the council urges Muslim politicians to display the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity by letting those who emerged victorious in the just concluded elections enjoy their win and 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, hatred, disunity and violence within the Ummah.
“Council also appeals to Muslims who Allah has adorned with his wealth and bounties to extend their acts of charity to the less privileged within their neighborhoods before, during and after the month of Ramadan. We also admonish traders not to hoard food products or hike the prices of consumer goods during the period of fasting in a bid to extort or make more profit.
Edited by Zainab Y Hamza