The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called upon Muslims across Nigeria to keep an eye out for the crescent moon of Sha’aban 1445AH after sunset on Saturday, 29th Rajab, 1445AH (February 10, 2024), in anticipation of this year’s Ramadan fasting.
In a statement issued by Prof. Salisu Shehu, the Deputy Secretary-General of the NSCIA, on behalf of Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, Muslims are advised to observe the sky after sunset for the sighting of the Sha’aban crescent. Shehu explained that scientifically, the expected time for the moon’s conjunction is Friday, February 9, 2024, at 11:59 PM.
It is essential to recognize that the crescent moon may become visible several hours after the conjunction, taking into account various environmental factors.
This announcement comes as Sha’aban, the eighth lunar calendar month, indicates that Ramadan, the ninth lunar month, is approximately one month away.