The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Muslims in Nigeria to watch for the Sha’aban crescent on Saturday, February 10, 2024 (29th Rajab 1445AH) to prepare for Ramadan fasting.
Prof Salisu Shehu, the council’s deputy secretary-general emphasised in a statement on Friday.
The beginning of Sha’aban, the eighth month in the lunar calendar, indicates that Ramadan is just a month away.
Prof. Shehu highlighted that scientifically, they expected the moon’s conjunction on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 11:59 pm, suggesting that the moon might be visible shortly after the conjunction.
Ramadan: Housewives Lament Poor Electricity Supply Amid Harsh Weather
The month of Ramadan is one of the sacred months in the Islamic calendar where Muslim faithful abstain from eating, drinking and sexual intercourse from down to sunset as one of the pillars of Islam.
In Ramadan, Muslims worldwide engage in fasting, prayers, reflection and focus on spiritual growth and self-discipline.
It is also a time for increased charitable giving and community service, and Islam encouraged muslims to donate to those in need.
Ramadan culminates by sighting the month of Shawwal (the tenth month) with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a three-day festival that marks the end of the fasting period.
