Sultan of Sokoto Declares Commencement of Ramadan 1445

The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, the renowned spiritual head of Muslims in Nigeria, has declared, Monday, March 11, 2024, to be the first day of Ramadan.

This statement followed the sighting of the moon in several parts of the country over the weekend, the 29th of Shaban.

The Sultan emphasised that this sighting is consistent with Islamic tradition and marks the beginning of Ramadan 1445.

The decision was guided by reports from Muslim leaders around the country, which confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon.

“We got the information from Muslim leaders across the country and we accept the sighting of the moon accordingly,” the Sultan said.

The Sultan’s proclamation emphasises the importance of following Islamic teachings, encouraging Nigeria’s whole Muslim population to begin fasting following Islamic standards.

Furthermore, Sultan Abubakar used the occasion to encourage Muslims to use the month of Ramadan to pray fervently against the country’s current insecurity.

He emphasised the importance of supplication for national leaders, calling Muslims to pray for their guidance and wisdom as they carry out their duties with honesty and fear of God.

In addition to spiritual commitments, the Sultan stressed the importance of compassion and kindness throughout Ramadan.

He encouraged the wealthy members of the Muslim community to help the less fortunate by offering food and aid throughout the Holy Month.

Meanwhile, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde extended his congratulations to the Muslim Ummah in the state and around the world on the start of Ramadan 1445.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Makinde emphasised the significance of increased prayer during this auspicious month, particularly for the nation’s well-being in the face of economic hardships.

“My administration has been doing everything possible to mitigate the effects of the economic hardship and will not relent until life becomes better for all residents of the state.

“I felicitate my Muslim brothers and sisters on the occasion of the commencement of the month of Ramadan 1445. This is another opportunity Allah offers us 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,” Makinde said.

Similarly, former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Osun State, Dotun Babayemi, asked the Muslim faithful to utilise the opportunity provided by Ramadan to pray fervently for Nigeria.

He emphasised Nigerians’ common responsibility to promote national development and prosperity through concerted efforts and unwavering appeal to the almighty.

“It’s our collective responsibility to see that Nigeria succeeds.

“This we can achieve by being relentless in our tangible efforts and through constant supplications to God, especially as offered by the opportunities inherent in the fasting period,” he said.

As Nigeria begins its month-long Ramadan journey, religious and political leaders’ directions and calls to prayer reflect a message of unity, compassion, and faith, encouraging residents to band together for spiritual enlightenment and national prosperity.