By Ayomide Otitoju
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the first day of Ramadan 1446AH, following the sighting of the new moon across various parts of Nigeria on Friday.
Announcing the commencement of the holy month, the Sultan stated that reports of the moon sighting were received from Muslim leaders nationwide, confirming the end of the month of Sha’ban.
“We have received credible reports of the moon sighting from different regions, and we accept the testimonies accordingly,” the Sultan said.
He urged the Muslim community to commence fasting in accordance with Islamic teachings.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has extended his felicitations to Muslims across the country as they embark on the sacred month of Ramadan. In a statement issued on Friday, the President expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the privilege of witnessing the holy month.
“May this period of fasting and devotion be marked by good health, spiritual fulfillment, and divine blessings,” Tinubu stated.
The President emphasized the significance of Ramadan as a time for deep reflection, renewed faith, and acts of compassion. He encouraged Muslims to embrace the core values of piety, humility, and selflessness throughout the fasting period.
“This year’s Ramadan coincides with a period of renewed hope and progress for our nation,” Tinubu remarked, citing recent economic improvements, including the stabilization of the exchange rate and a decline in the prices of essential goods.
He concluded with prayers for a spiritually enriching Ramadan, urging Muslims to use the season to foster unity and strengthen their connection with Allah.
Katsina State Orders Closure of Private Schools for Ramadan
In a related development, the Katsina State Hisbah Board has directed all private schools in the state to close for the duration of Ramadan.
The board, which enforces Islamic principles in the state, warned that non-compliance with the directive would not be tolerated.
Commander-General of the Hisbah Board, Malam Aminu Usman, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, February 27, 2025, emphasizing that the decision aligns with the state government’s directive.
“The closure is to enable pupils to fully observe the fasting period,” Usman stated, adding that extra lessons would also be suspended during Ramadan.
