Ramadan 2024: Sultan declares fasting to begin Monday as crescent sighted
In a significant announcement, the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially declared the commencement of Ramadan fasting on Monday, March 11, 2024.
The proclamation, delivered via a concise statement by a member of the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC), Mallam Yahaya Muhammad Boyi, on Sunday evening, marks the beginning of the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.
“The Sultanate Council Sokoto has declared Monday 11/3/2024 as the first day of Ramadan 1445 AH,” the statement affirmed.
While awaiting the Sultan’s formal declaration later in the night, anticipation was high among Muslims nationwide following earlier reports of the sighting of the Ramadan crescent.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a pivotal reference for Muslims worldwide, had confirmed the sighting of the lunar month of Ramadan within its territory. This announcement, made via its official X account (@Haramaininfo), indicated the commencement of fasting.
“Crescent of Ramadan 1445/2024 has been sighted in Saudi Arabia!
“Subsequently, Ramadan 1445/2024 begins tomorrow, 11 March 2024.
“Taraweeh Prayers will begin in the Two Holy Mosques after Isha Prayers,” the statement highlighted.
With the confirmation from Saudi Arabia, attention turned to the Sultan for an official declaration, aligning with his earlier call for Muslims to observe the Ramadan crescent after sunset on Sunday, March 10.
The NSCIA, in coordination with the NMSC, had encouraged Muslims to report credible sightings of the crescent, underscoring the significance of collective participation in determining the start of Ramadan.
Ramadan holds immense significance in the Islamic faith, serving as a period of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and heightened devotion. It is characterized by fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, and acts of charity.
As Muslims across Nigeria prepare to embark on this sacred journey, the declaration by the Sultan heralds a time of unity, introspection, and renewal of faith. Ramadan represents a time of communal solidarity, where individuals come together to strengthen their bond with Allah and strive for spiritual growth.
Amidst the challenges of the modern world, Ramadan serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, reminding believers of the importance of humility, compassion, and gratitude. It offers an opportunity for self-improvement, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
As fasting begins, Muslims will engage in acts of worship, including recitation of the Quran, nightly prayers known as Taraweeh, and increased charitable deeds. It is a time of heightened spirituality and closeness to Allah, as believers seek His guidance and blessings.
The commencement of Ramadan is a momentous occasion, marking the start of a transformative journey for Muslims worldwide. As they embark on this spiritual quest, may the blessings of Ramadan bring peace, prosperity, and enlightenment to all.
