The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has tasked Muslims in the country to be on the lookout for the new moon between Sunday and Monday for the Eid el-Fitri.
The challenge is contained in a statement issued by the council through its Secretary-General, Is-haq Oloyede.
Mr Oloyede in the statement said the council under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, is urging all Muslims to look out for the new moon which marks the end of the Ramadan fasting period.
He also noted that the Sultan has constituted a National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC) to the effect.
“NMSC has advised the President-General that the crescent of Shawwal should be searched for on Monday, July 4, 2016 equivalent to 29th Ramadan 1437 AH.
“If the crescent is actually sighted by informed persons on Monday night and His Eminence is so advised by the experts, he would declare Tuesday, July 5, 2016 as the first day of Shawwal (‘Id day).
“If, however, the crescent is not sighted on Monday night, Wednesday, July 6, 2016 automatically becomes the first of Shawwal 1437 AH (‘Id day).”
He further urged all Muslims “to ensure the delivery of Zakatul-Fitri to the appropriate recipients –the poor –and guard against its diversion by any agent or intermediary.”