Saudi Arabia has announced the start of Ramadan following the sighting of the crescent moon, with fasting set to begin on Wednesday, 18 February, while Muslims in Nigeria await local confirmation of the new month.

In a statement, authorities said the crescent was sighted on Tuesday evening, prompting the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia to declare Wednesday as the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH.

The court said its decision followed verified testimonies from credible witnesses who observed the moon, in line with Islamic tradition that fasting begins upon sighting the crescent.

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While Saudi Arabia and several Muslim-majority countries rely on official moon-sighting committees, others determine the start of the month through local observations or astronomical calculations.

In Nigeria, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has urged Muslims to look out for the crescent immediately after sunset on Tuesday, corresponding to the 29th of Sha’aban. The council said if the moon is sighted and confirmed by reliable witnesses, its president-general and Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar, will formally declare Wednesday as the first day of fasting.

However, if the crescent is not seen, Ramadan will automatically commence on Thursday, 19 February.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset and devote the month to spiritual growth and acts of kindness.

The holy month also commemorates the revelation of the Quran and includes increased worship, with many faithful aspiring to perform pilgrimage rites in Mecca when able.

Common greetings during the period include “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem,” wishing others a blessed and generous month.

LUKMAN ABDULMALIK
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