Osas Aikhomu
His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially confirmed the sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon, declaring Wednesday, 18th February 2026, as the first day of the holy month in Nigeria.
The announcement was made on Tuesday evening by the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, acting on behalf of the Sultanate Council. This followed thorough verification of moon sightings submitted by Muslim leaders across the nation.
The royal proclamation emphasized that credible testimonies from multiple states had been meticulously examined and validated before declaring the start of Ramadan 1447AH.
“Following rigorous scrutiny of verified lunar sightings nationwide, the Sultanate Council confirms the beginning of Ramadan. Accordingly, Nigerian Muslims shall commence fasting on Wednesday, 18 February 2026,” the official statement declared.
The Sultanate’s communication highlighted the traditional role played by the Shehu of Borno in making the announcement during the Sultan’s absence, in accordance with Islamic leadership protocols.
In his spiritual charge, the Sultan appealed to the Muslim faithful to embrace Ramadan’s sacredness through intensified worship, meditation, and benevolent deeds while praying for national harmony and prosperity.
“This blessed month demands heightened devotion, generosity and empathy. Let us collectively supplicate for Nigeria’s peace, leadership wisdom, and socio-economic advancement,” the spiritual leader exhorted.
During Ramadan, observant Muslims worldwide abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to sunset, devoting themselves to Quranic recitation, night prayers (Taraweeh), and increased charitable giving (Zakat and Sadaqah).
