A spectacular total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a blood moon, will be visible across Nigeria and several African countries tonight, Sunday, September 7, 2025. Scientists say the celestial event will begin around 8:00 p.m. Nigerian time and last for approximately 83 minutes.
The eclipse will be observable in Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Benin, Togo, Niger, Chad, and São Tomé and Príncipe. While many parts of Nigeria are expected to see the full event, experts caution that some westernmost areas may miss the early stages, as the Moon could rise closer to or during the peak of totality.
A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align in a straight line, with the Earth positioned between them. This alignment causes the Earth’s shadow to fall on the Moon, giving it a dim reddish appearance. The striking red tint, often described as a “blood moon,” is caused by sunlight bending through Earth’s atmosphere and filtering out blue light.
Unlike solar eclipses, the lunar eclipse is safe to watch with the naked eye, though binoculars or telescopes may enhance the view. With a duration of 83 minutes, tonight’s blood moon ranks among the longer eclipses in recent years, offering skywatchers across the continent an extraordinary opportunity to witness nature’s display.