NSCIA Calls On Muslims To Observe New Moon For Ramadan Sighting

NSCIA Calls On Muslims To Observe New Moon For Ramadan Sighting

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has released tentative dates for the commencement of the annual Ramadan fast, pegging March 11 and March 12, 2024, as potential start dates, pending the sighting of the moon after sunset on Sunday, March 10, 2024……READ ALSO President Tinubu To NSCIA: Nobody Is Interested In War But Sanctions Relief Can Only Result From Niger Junta’s Positive Change In Posture 

Prof. Salisu Shehu, Deputy Secretary-General of the NSCIA, issued a statement urging the Muslim community to diligently search for the crescent of Ramadan 1445 on the specified date, which corresponds to the 29th Sha’aban 1445 AH. Shehu emphasized the importance of credible sightings, urging those who observe the crescent to promptly inform the National Moon Sighting Committee.

Under the leadership of President-General Alh. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the NSCIA extended felicitations to the entire Muslim Ummah in anticipation of the forthcoming 1445 AH Ramadan Fast. The council expressed hopes that all Muslims would be spared to partake in the worship activities and derive maximum benefits from the holy month.

The statement outlined the procedure for determining the start of Ramadan, indicating that if the crescent is sighted on the evening of March 10, 2024, Monday, March 11, 2024, would mark the beginning of Ramadan 1445 AH. However, if the crescent remains unseen, Tuesday, March 12, 2024, will automatically become the first day of Ramadan.

Additionally, the NSCIA appealed to affluent Muslims to demonstrate acts of charity towards the less privileged during Ramadan. The council also cautioned traders against hoarding food items or unjustly inflating prices during the fasting period, emphasizing the importance of fair practices.

In conclusion, the statement urged Muslims to utilize the holy month of Ramadan to pray for the well-being of Palestinians and for their liberation from oppression, highlighting the spiritual significance and broader humanitarian aspects of the fasting period.