The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Muslims across Nigeria to begin searching for the new moon of Ramadan on Friday, February 28, 2025.

A statement issued by the Sultanate Council of Sokoto, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Islamic Religious Affairs, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto, emphasized the importance of moon sighting in determining the commencement of Ramadan.

According to the statement, Muslims who sight the crescent moon should report their observations to the nearest district or village head for onward communication to the Sultan. This date corresponds to the 29th of Sha’aban 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.

The monthly observation of the moon plays a crucial role in the Islamic lunar calendar, ensuring accuracy and fostering unity in the declaration of Ramadan’s beginning across the country.

The sighting of the moon will officially mark the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims observe fasting from dawn to dusk, engage in increased prayers, and participate in acts of charity.

The Sultan, who serves as the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria, has consistently encouraged Muslim faithful to participate in the moon-sighting exercise and report their findings promptly to ensure a unified start to Ramadan.