Fasting: The Sultan declares Thursday, 1st Ramadan 1444AH as Ramadan

BY: News Peddlers 

Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III, Sultan of Sokoto

The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III, has declared Thursday, March 23, as the first day of Ramadan 1444 AH in Nigeria.

In a radio and television broadcast on Wednesday, Mr Abubakar announced the sighting of the new crescent in Sokoto.

He stated that the new moon was seen in various parts of the country and that reports of moon sightings were received from Muslim leaders and organisations throughout the country.

"I hereby announce the sighting of the moon after due verification and authentication by the national moon sighting committee and state committees' confirmation, as well as routine scrutiny."

"Following due verification and authentication by the national moon sighting committee and the confirmation of state committees, as well as routine scrutiny, I hereby announce the sighting of the Ramadan new moon, signalling the end of Sha'aban 1444 AH."

"In accordance with Islamic law, Muslims must begin fasting on Thursday," he declared.

The sultan urged Muslim faithful to devote themselves fully to Allah's worship throughout the holy month, urging them to use the time to pray for the nation's progress, peace, and prosperity.

“We have chosen leaders that will take the affairs of our country and States in some months to come, we should continue to pray for them in order to be able to redeem their promises to us.

“No one should maltreat anyone or cause destruction that will affect our relationships, especially against those perceived to be political opponents.

“Elections have come and gone and winners have emerged as destined by God, so let every Muslim reconcile in the spirit of brotherhood, love, peace and unity.

“Islam was built on five pillars, and peace, unity and brotherhood among Muslims were basic and fundamental ingredients to strengthen the religion.

”We should not break relationships because of politics. We should live peacefully with one another irrespective of religious and tribal differences,” Abubakar said.

The Sultan also urged wealthy people to help the poor and emphasised the importance of religious tolerance and brotherhood in Nigeria.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during which Muslim believers fast for one month.

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is a religious requirement for all adult Muslims.

(NAN)