Sultan of Sokoto Announces Crescent Moon Yet To Be Sighted

 

Sultan of Sokoto Announces Crescent Moon Yet To Be Sighted

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared that the crescent moon marking the end of Ramadan 1446 was not sighted in Nigeria. 

Consequently, Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Monday, March 31, 2025, instead of Sunday, March 30.

This decision follows the traditional Islamic practice of moon sighting to determine the conclusion of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal. The NSCIA had earlier urged Muslims to search for the Shawwal crescent on the 29th of Ramadan, corresponding to March 29, 2025. Since the moon was not sighted, fasting will continue for one more day, and Eid celebrations will commence on Monday.

In contrast, Saudi Arabia announced the sighting of the Shawwal crescent and will observe Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, March 30, 2025. This difference in dates underscores the reliance on local moon sightings in determining Islamic calendar events.

The Nigerian Federal Government has declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, as public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebration. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, extended congratulations to Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan and encouraged the embrace of virtues such as self-discipline, compassion, generosity, and peace. 

He also emphasized the importance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity in building a harmonious society and urged Nigerians to use this festive period to pray for the nation’s peace, stability, and prosperity.

As Nigerians prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr on Monday, the Sultan encourages all Muslims to continue their spiritual practices and community engagements, reflecting the values upheld during the holy month of Ramadan.