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By Lukman Olabiyi
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Muslims across the country to look out for the crescent marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447AH today, February 17, corresponding to 29th Sha’aban 1447AH.
In a statement by its Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the Council congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the forthcoming fasting season and urged adherence to establish Islamic guidelines on moon sighting.
According to the council, the crescent should be searched for immediately after sunset today. It explained that if the moon is sighted, the President-General of the NSCIA and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, would officially declare tomorrow, February 18, as the first day of Ramadan.
However, if the crescent is not sighted, Thursday, February 19, will automatically become the first day of the holy month.
The council noted that the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC) has put mechanisms in place to monitor and verify credible sightings, in consultation with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
Beyond the moon sighting announcement, the NSCIA expressed concern over what it described as rising Islamophobia and negative narratives against Muslims in Nigeria.
It said Muslims have, over the past years, faced heightened hostility and misrepresentation, even as they remain victims of insecurity, including insurgency and banditry.
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The council alleged that media coverage of incidents involving Muslims has often lacked fairness and objectivity, citing past and recent cases where it claimed religious identities were highlighted selectively.
It maintained that criminal acts by individuals should not be used to stigmatise entire faith communities.
The NSCIA also raised concerns over the scheduling of national elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that the presidential election is expected to hold during Ramadan, while a gubernatorial poll may coincide with Eid-ul-Fitr.
The council said it is closely monitoring the development and expects a review.
Despite the challenges, the council urged Muslims to remain steadfast, prayerful and committed to peaceful coexistence.
Quoting Qur’anic verses, it emphasised justice, patience and righteousness toward people of other faiths who do not engage in hostility.
The NSCIA prayed for peace, unity and divine guidance for Nigeria, expressing hope that Muslims would witness and complete Ramadan 1447AH in good health and tranquility.
