Abuja, Nigeria – February 22, 2025
Nigeria’s night skies are about to host a breathtaking astronomical event as the country prepares for its first lunar crescent sighting of the year on February 28, according to the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
The agency announced that the crescent will officially appear at 1:45 AM West Africa Time (WAT)—a moment astronomers refer to as the Crescent Zero Hour. However, the thin sliver of moonlight will only become visible to the naked eye between 6:17 PM and 7:35 PM.
Maiduguri is expected to be the first city in Nigeria to witness the delicate crescent, with Lagos likely among the last to catch a glimpse before nightfall deepens.
In a statement, NASRDA advised enthusiasts to equip themselves with binoculars or telescopes for a clearer view and to position themselves in open areas with an unobstructed western horizon. “For the best chance of spotting the crescent, observers should avoid areas with tall buildings or thick vegetation,” the statement added.
Beyond its scientific significance, the sighting holds cultural and religious importance for many Nigerians, particularly those observing the Islamic lunar calendar, as it often marks the beginning of a new month and plays a vital role in determining the start of Ramadan.
Astronomers and space enthusiasts have expressed excitement about the event, calling it an opportunity for both casual skywatchers and seasoned stargazers to reconnect with the cosmos.
“This is more than just a scientific event—it’s a shared cultural experience for many communities,” said a NASRDA spokesperson. “We encourage everyone to look up and enjoy this natural wonder.”
As anticipation builds, social media is already buzzing with excitement, with users encouraged to share their moon sightings using hashtags like #Nigeria, #LunarCrescent, and #MoonSighting.
For those eager to witness this celestial event, all it takes is a clear sky, a good view of the west, and a little patience.
