Ramadan: Sultanate Council Urges Muslims To Look Out For New Moon
The Sultanate Council has issued a directive for Muslims across Nigeria to look out for the new moon of Sha’aban 1446 AH on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, corresponding to the 29th day of Rajab 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.
The announcement, made in a statement on Tuesday, was signed by the Waziri of Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Junaidu. The statement encourages Muslims nationwide to begin moon sighting and report any sightings to their nearest District or Village Head, who will then forward the information to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for official confirmation.
The sighting of the new moon marks the beginning of Sha’aban, the month immediately preceding Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. This practice holds great significance in Islam, as it helps Muslims prepare for the start of Ramadan.
The statement concluded with a prayer: “May Allah (SWT) help us in the discharge of this religious duty. Amen.”
This directive underscores the traditional role of the Sultanate Council in issuing moon sighting declarations, which help guide Muslims in their religious observances, especially the fasting during Ramadan.
