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By Chinelo Obogo and from Agaju Madugba, Katsina
The Muslim community in Nigeria and the rest of the world would commence Ramadan’s month-long fasting today after an official sighting of the new crescent moon
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar, yesterday, announced the sighting of the crescent moon for the commencement of Ramadan fasting.
On Friday, the Sultan, President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), had asked Muslims to look out for the new moon in preparation for the beginning of Ramadan.
“Today, Sunday, the 29th day of Sha’aban 1445 after the hijra which is equivalent to 10th March 2024, marks the end of Sha’aban 1445 after hijrah, with the reports of moon sightings that we have received from Muslim leaders and organisations across the country which we duly accepted,” he said.
“Consequently, tomorrow, Monday, 11th of March, 2024, becomes the first day of Ramadan 1445 after hijra.
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“We, therefore, call on Muslims in the country to commence fasting accordingly. We call on all Muslims to use the glorious month of Ramadan to pray for the country.”
Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE have also confirmed that Ramadan will begin today, with Oman, Pakistan, Indonesia, Australia, Malaysia, Brunei and Iran to follow a day later.
… Makinde urges increased prayers, good neighbourliness
Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, has congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State and across the world on the commencement of the month of Ramadan 1445.
The governor, who described the holy month as a blessed month in which Allah rewards the worship of the Muslim Ummah, charged Muslims to increase their prayers for the country and the state.
Governor Makinde called for increased prayers for the country amid the economic hardship facing the people, noting that though leaders have been doing everything to turn the situation around, prayers are of greater essence at this time.
He equally charged Muslims around the world to demonstrate the lessons of love, kindness and good neighbourliness as taught by Prophet Mohammed, admonishing those who have enough to remember their neighbours, as more people are going through hard times.
According to the governor, his administration had been doing everything possible to mitigate the effects of the economic hardship and it will not relent until life becomes better for all residents of the state.
He said: “I felicitate my Muslim brothers and sisters on the occasion of the commencement of the month of Ramadan 1445.
“This is another opportunity offered to us by Allah (SWT) to serve Him and seek His face and I will encourage all and sundry to make good use of the opportunity as always.
“I charge the Muslim Ummah to, as they have always done, pray for our dear State and Nigeria, as we have all come to realise that prayer remains the greatest key for believers to make things happen.
“We do know that our country is in a bit of economic hardship, but while we continue to look up to the leaders to do the needful, we must also support our hopes with prayers to God. I also want to charge my Muslim brothers and sisters, especially those who have in abundance, to remember their neighbours and show kindness.
“It is my prayer that Allah SWT will reward your acts of worship and accept it as Ibadah.”
…Uphold principles of fairness, compassion – Katsina gov
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, urged residents to uphold the principles of fairness and compassion as Muslims begin the month-long Ramadan fasting.
“As the blessed month of Ramadan dawns upon us, I extend heartfelt greetings to the resilient people of Katsina State.
“Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, devotion and compassion, a period where we draw closer to our faith and seek the blessings of Allah.”
According to the statement, “during this sacred month, let us come together as a community to pray for peace and unity in our beloved state and nation.
“Let us earnestly supplicate for an end to the scourge of banditry and other criminal activities that threaten the safety and well-being of our people.
“To our market men and women, I urge you to uphold the principles of fairness and compassion. Let us not succumb to greed or exploitation by hoarding or inflating the prices of essential food items and grains.
“Fear Allah in your dealings and remember the importance of kindness and generosity towards one another, especially during this holy month.
“Together, let us dedicate ourselves to fervent prayers for lasting peace, not only in Katsina but throughout Nigeria.
“May our collective supplications resonate with sincerity and humility, inviting divine mercy and blessings upon our land.
“As we embark on this journey of fasting and spiritual renewal, may Allah shower His abundant blessings upon each one of us.
“May this Ramadan be a time of enlightenment, forgiveness and spiritual growth for all.”
