Nigeria, April 12 -- Following the sighting of the moon, this year's Ramadan starts Tuesday, the Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar, announced Monday.

Mr Abubakar, who is the president of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), said this in an announcement on NTA live broadcast.

He urged all Muslims to use the occasion of the holy month to pray fervently for the country and indulge in acts of charity so as to benefit maximally this month.

The NSCIA on Monday had issued a guideline enjoining the Ummah to practice social distancing during the 1442AH Ramadan.

"All COVID-19 protocols should be observed. I'tikaf should still be put on hold while strict observance of all COVID19 protocols including avoiding lengthy or crowded...