Ramadan 2025: Nigeria’s NSCIA Announces Possible Fasting Extension
Fasting May Continue as the Moon Remains Unseen
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced that fasting may extend to Sunday, March 30, 2025, as the crescent moon signaling the end of Ramadan remains unseen in Nigeria.
In a statement signed by NSCIA Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the council urged Muslims across the country to remain observant and search for the crescent of Shawwal on the 29th day of Ramadan.
“If Muslims sight the crescent in accordance with the moon sighting and verification standards, His Eminence will declare Sunday, 30 March 2025, as the 1st of Shawwal and the day of Eid ul-Fitr,” the statement read.
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Importance of Moon Sighting in Islam
Moon sighting plays a crucial role in determining Islamic calendar dates, particularly the beginning and end of Ramadan. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt also rely on verified moon sightings to confirm Eid ul-Fitr celebrations. For real-time updates on global moon sightings, visit International Astronomy Center.
What Happens If the Moon Is Not Sighted?
If the crescent moon is not sighted, Ramadan will automatically extend to 30 days, making Monday, March 31, 2025, the 1st of Shawwal and the official Eid ul-Fitr day in Nigeria. The NSCIA follows the Islamic moon sighting verification guidelines, similar to those upheld by Al Jazeera’s Ramadan Tracker (Al Jazeera Ramadan News).
How Muslims Can Prepare for Eid ul-Fitr
To ensure a spiritually fulfilling Eid ul-Fitr, the NSCIA encourages Muslims to:
- Continue fasting until an official announcement is made.
- Perform Zakat al-Fitr, an obligatory charity given before Eid prayer. You can learn more about its significance at Islamic Relief.
- Prepare for Eid prayers, which will be held in mosques and open grounds across the country.
- Celebrate responsibly, adhering to local safety and security measures as advised by the Nigerian government (Nigeria Security Updates).
Stay Updated on the Eid Announcement
For the latest official updates on Eid ul-Fitr 2025 in Nigeria, follow:
- NSCIA’s Official Website: NSCIA Website
- Nigeria’s Moon Sighting Committee: NMSC Updates
- Islamic Calendar Authority: Islamic Finder
Final Thought: A Call to Faithful Observance
As Ramadan nears its end, Muslims in Nigeria and around the world remain hopeful for the moon sighting that will mark the joyous occasion of Eid ul-Fitr. Whether it falls on Sunday or Monday, the focus remains on faith, charity, and community unity.