The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced that fasting may continue on Sunday as the crescent moon has not yet been sighted in Nigeria.
The announcement was made in a statement signed by NSCIA Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, on Saturday, confirming that the end of Ramadan remains uncertain pending further verification. This means the expected Eid-el-Fitr celebrations may be delayed.
Muslims Urged to Look Out for the Crescent
Prof. Oloyede urged Nigerian Muslims to actively search for the Shawwal crescent on the 29th of Ramadan, emphasizing that moon sighting must follow the council’s verification standards.
“If Muslims sight the crescent in accordance with the moon sighting and verification standards, then His Eminence would declare Sunday, March 30, 2025, as the 1st of Shawwal and the day of Idul Fitr,” he stated. However, since the crescent has not yet been seen, Ramadan fasting may continue until the moon is officially sighted.
Final Decision Expected Soon on Ramadan Fasting
With no official confirmation of the new moon, Nigerian Muslims are advised to remain patient as religious authorities continue to observe developments. The delay in moon sighting means that Ramadan fasting may extend, and a final decision is expected soon.
This update aligns with the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs’ guidelines, ensuring that fasting may continue until the crescent moon is verified.
