The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Muslims across the country to look out for the sighting of the Ramadan crescent on the night of Friday, February 28, 2025. The sighting of the moon will determine the official start of Ramadan 1446 AH.
The council prayed for all Muslims to be granted long life and good health so they can fully participate in the religious obligations of the holy month. It also urged worshippers to take full advantage of the spiritual benefits that come with fasting and prayer during Ramadan.
In a statement, the NSCIA noted that aside from traditional Islamic leaders in various communities, some members of the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC) are also available to receive and verify reports of credible sightings of the crescent moon.
Amid the economic challenges facing many Nigerians, the council encouraged wealthy individuals to support those who are struggling financially. It urged Muslims to extend charity to the less privileged in their communities before, during, and even after the holy month, emphasizing that acts of kindness are an important part of Ramadan.
“The council, once again, admonishes traders to neither hoard food products nor unduly hike the prices of consumer goods during the period of the fast,” the statement read.
The NSCIA further reminded the Muslim community that the official declaration for the start of Ramadan will be made by the President-General of the council after confirmation of the moon sighting.
