Sultan of Sokoto Declares March 1st as Ramadan 1446AH Begins

The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially declared Saturday, March 1st, 2025, as the first day of Ramadan 1446AH, following the confirmed sighting of the crescent moon across different parts of the country.

This announcement marks the beginning of the sacred fasting period for Muslims in Nigeria and worldwide. According to Islamic tradition, the sighting of the moon on the 29th day of Shaban determines the start of Ramadan, and this year, the crescent was observed in various locations on Friday evening.

In a statement, the Sultan said, “We got the information from Muslim leaders across the country, and we accept the sighting of the moon accordingly.” He urged the Muslim faithful to commence fasting from Monday, in accordance with Islamic teachings.

President Tinubu Congratulates Muslims on Ramadan 1446AH

As Muslims across Nigeria prepare for a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the faithful, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to witness yet another Ramadan.

In a statement personally signed on Friday, February 28th, 2025, the President highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a period of “deep reflection, renewed devotion to Allah, and acts of compassion and generosity.”

He called on Muslims to embrace the lessons of humility, self-discipline, and unity, emphasizing that this year’s Ramadan is particularly special as it coincides with a period of “renewed hope and progress” for Nigeria.

According to the President, his administration’s economic policies are starting to yield positive results, pointing to improvements in Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the last quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year.

“The once-soaring prices of essential food items are now declining, providing much-needed relief to our fasting population and all Nigerians,” Tinubu said, adding that exchange rates are stabilizing, and fuel prices are gradually reducing.

While this optimism is typical of political speeches, many Nigerians might argue otherwise. The reality on the streets does not always match government reports. Inflation remains a major concern, and despite claims of economic stability, many families continue to struggle with the high cost of living.

Nonetheless, Tinubu extended his best wishes to all Muslims observing Ramadan, praying that the month brings peace, joy, and spiritual renewal.

Katsina Hisbah Orders Private Schools to Shut Down for Ramadan

The Katsina State Hisbah Board has directed all private schools across the state to shut down throughout the Ramadan period.

The Hisbah Board, which enforces Islamic laws in the state, issued this directive on Thursday, February 27th, 2025, warning that non-compliance “will not be tolerated.”

According to Malam Aminu Usman, the Commander-General of the Board, the decision aligns with the State Government’s directive to ensure Muslim students fully observe the fasting period without distractions.

“The directive includes extra lessons as well,” the statement added.

This order raises serious concerns about religious influence over education. While Islamic teachings encourage dedication to fasting, forcing all schools—including private institutions—to close raises constitutional and human rights questions.

Some Nigerians argue that such policies further blur the line between religion and governance, especially in a multi-religious country like Nigeria. Should private schools, which cater to students from diverse backgrounds, be compelled to halt academic activities because of religious observances?

While the intention might be to uphold religious values, the implications for education remain a serious debate.

Religious Observance vs. National Development

The start of Ramadan 1446AH is undoubtedly a significant period for Muslims worldwide, marked by devotion, fasting, and prayer. The Sultan’s announcement and Tinubu’s goodwill message reflect the importance of this sacred month to millions of Nigerians.

However, policies like Katsina’s compulsory school closure highlight the ongoing debate about the intersection of religion and governance. Nigeria, as a secular state, must strike a balance between religious obligations and the nation’s educational and economic needs.