Sultan Announces March 1 as Start of Ramadan Fasting

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the official start of Ramadan fasting in Nigeria. His announcement follows the confirmed sighting of the new crescent moon, signaling the beginning of the holy month.

In a nationwide broadcast, the Sultan, who also serves as the President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), shared that reports of the moon sighting were received from various regions of the country. 

After verification by the National Moon Sighting Committee and state committees, it was confirmed that Sha’aban 1446 AH had ended, paving the way for Ramadan.

With this confirmation, Muslims across Nigeria will commence fasting on March 1, observing one of the five pillars of Islam. During this period, they will abstain from food, drinks, smoking, and other physical indulgences from dawn to sunset, dedicating themselves to worship and spiritual reflection.

The Sultan urged Muslims to use this sacred time for deep devotion, prayers, and good deeds, encouraging them to seek peace and unity for the nation. He also emphasized the need for the wealthy to support the less privileged, underscoring the values of charity and kindness that define Ramadan.

Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a period of self-discipline, compassion, and renewed faith. As the holy month begins, the Sultan called on Nigerians to embrace tolerance and harmony, fostering a spirit of brotherhood across religious and ethnic lines.