- By Kamil Opeyemi
Millions of Muslims across the world are offering prayers Wednesday night in opening of the annual Ramadan fasting.
The moon was sighted as announced by the Amir Mumini in Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar.
Abubakar, who is the President General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, said the announcement followed due authentication of the sighting by relevant authorities.
“Today, Wednesday 29th day of Sha’bban 1444 AH which is equivalent to 22nd March 2023 marks the end of the month of Sha’bban 1444 AH. Reports of moon sighting of the new moon we have received from Muslim leaders and Organisations across the length and breath of our dear country which are duly authenticated and verified by the state and National moon sighting committee,” Sultan said
https://twitter.com/NpoReports/status/1638644319744671744?s=20“Consequently, tomorrow Thursday the 23rd day of March 2023 becomes the first day of Ramadan 1444 after Hijra.
“We, therefore, call on all Muslims to commence fasting accordingly. As we just concluded the 2023 general elections and leaders emerge at the national and state levels by Allah’s will, we, therefore, call on all Muslims to use this holy month to pray in guiding the affairs of our great country.
“We appeal to the well-meaning individuals amongst us to assist the vulnerable and the poor people with food during this holy month of Ramadan to ease the hardship people are going through. May Allah reward us for our ibadah with Jannatul Firdaus, Ameen.”
Don’t Hike Prices of Foodstuffs Because of Ramadan – Nigeria’s President, Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari, in his message to all Muslims, said the month calls for deep reflection adding that Muslims must use the teachings of Islam for the good of humanity.
He said, “As we begin the holy month of Ramadan, let us use this opportunity to put the best teachings of Islam into practice, such as kindness and the love of humanity. This is an occasion for deep reflection and greater fear of Allah, and avoidance of all evils that harm humanity.
President Buhari advised against extortions during the month saying such unnecessary increase in prices of foodstuffs are against the dictates of Allah.
“I am particularly aware of the activities of traders who artificially increase the prices of their goods, including food, at the beginning of every month of Ramadan. This kind of exploitation is against the spirit of Ramadan and the spirit of Islam.”
He said “While we are observing this important occasion in the spiritual life of Muslims, let us endeavour to share food and drinks with the less fortunate, because by sharing our blessings with others, Allah will multiply our rewards for good deeds. “