By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced that the crescent moon, which marks the end of Ramadan, was not sighted in Nigeria. As a result, fasting will continue for an additional day, with Eid-el-Fitr celebrations now expected to take place on Monday.
The declaration was made on Saturday, March 29, 2025, following extensive moon-sighting efforts by Islamic scholars and committees across the country. In a statement signed by the NSCIA’s Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the council confirmed that reports from various moon-sighting committees indicated that the new moon had not been sighted, necessitating the completion of the 30-day Ramadan fast in line with Islamic tradition.
“The crescent moon of Shawwal 1446 AH has not been sighted in Nigeria. Consequently, Ramadan fasting will continue on Sunday, March 30, 2025, and Eid-el-Fitr will be observed on Monday, March 31, 2025, In Sha Allah,” the statement read.
The moon sighting is a significant aspect of the Islamic calendar, as it determines the beginning and end of the holy month of Ramadan. Islamic scholars, astronomers, and religious leaders collaborate each year to confirm the visibility of the crescent moon before officially declaring Eid.
The Sultan urged Muslims across Nigeria to remain steadfast in their prayers and use the additional fasting day to seek divine blessings for the nation. He also called for unity, tolerance, and acts of charity, emphasizing that the essence of Ramadan extends beyond fasting to include devotion, self-discipline, and service to humanity.
Eid-el-Fitr, which signifies the completion of Ramadan, is one of the most significant celebrations in Islam, marked by communal prayers, feasting, and charitable giving. Many Muslims across Nigeria and the world had eagerly anticipated an early sighting of the moon, but the extension of fasting is in accordance with Islamic principles, which mandate a 30-day fast if the moon remains unseen.
Meanwhile, Islamic leaders and scholars have reiterated the importance of following the guidelines set by religious authorities to ensure uniformity in the observance of religious practices. The Nigerian Muslim community is expected to gather in large numbers on Monday for the special Eid prayers at designated prayer grounds across the country.
Security agencies and state governments have also assured citizens of adequate measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly Eid celebration. Muslims have been encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security officials to maintain a safe environment during the festivities.
As the nation prepares for Eid-el-Fitr, the Sultan extended his warmest wishes to all Nigerian Muslims, praying for peace, prosperity, and continued unity among citizens of diverse faiths. The announcement has been received with mixed emotions, as many faithful had hoped for a Sunday celebration but have accepted the extension in good faith.
