Muslims in Nigeria today join their counterparts around the world to commence this year’s Ramadan fast, following the declaration of moon-sighting by the President-General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, Wednesday night.
It is a month of dawn-to-dusk fasting, intense prayer and nightly feasts otherwise known as iftar.
Addressing newsmen in his palace, the Sultan stated that, Thursday June 18, marks the beginning of Ramadan 1436 A.H, urging Muslims to use the 29 or 30-day period to offer prayer for peace and development of the country.
“I have the greatest pleasure to announce to you that today June 17th marks the end of Shaaban and therefore Thursday June 18 marks the beginning of Ramadan 1436.
He continued: “Reliable reports from Muslim leaders across the country show that the new moon of Ramadan has been sighted in various parts of the country.
Henceforth, I urge you all to use the opportunity to offer prayers for peace and development of this country,” he said.
Meanwhile, the unifying efforts made over the years by the Sultan were commended by members of the Nigerian Muslim Community from the South-west who before the declaration had a close-door meeting with the Sultan.
