Sultan Declares March 1 as First Day of Ramadan 1446 AH

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), led by its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared today, Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the first day of Ramadan 1446 AH.

The announcement follows the sighting of the crescent moon on Friday, February 28, marking the end of the Islamic month of Sha’aban. In a video message released on Friday, Sultan Abubakar confirmed that credible moon sighting reports were received from various locations across Nigeria. After verification by the National Moon Sighting Committee and other relevant authorities, the council officially recognized the start of Ramadan.

The Sultan urged Muslim faithful across the country to commence fasting in line with Islamic teachings. He also encouraged prayers for national peace and prosperity while calling on the wealthy to support the less privileged during the holy month.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. The fast begins daily at dawn and ends at sunset, with Muslims abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours.

The month-long observance will conclude with Eid al-Fitr, a festival marking the end of fasting and the beginning of Shawwal, the next Islamic month.