Ramadan Crescent: Sultan tells Muslims what to do

The President General of the Nigerian Supreme for Islamic Affairs and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar has advised Muslim faithful across the country to look for the new crescent moon of Ramadan on Wednesday 22nd of March, 2023.

A statement signed by the Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, sultanate council, Sokoto, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu said Wednesday 22nd, 2023 is equivalent to the 29th of Sha’aban 1444 After Hijrah of the Islamic calendar, hence the day to look for the new moon.

The statement also advised that, when the new moon is sighted, it should be reported to the nearest district or village head for onward communication to the sultan.

The statement added that if the crescent is sighted by Muslims of impeccable character on the said evening, then Sultan shall declare Thursday, 23rd March 2023 as the first day of Ramadan 1444 A.H.

“If, however, the crescent is not sighted that day, then, Friday, 24th March 2023 shall automatically become the first day of Ramadan”, the statement read.