The President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially announced the commencement of Ramadan 2026 following the sighting of the crescent moon.
In a statement issued by Sambo Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, the Sultan disclosed that credible reports of moon sightings were received from different parts of Nigeria and subsequently verified and authenticated.
Represented by Shehu Abubakar Ibn Garbai El-Kanemi, the Sultan confirmed that Muslims across the country would begin the Ramadan fast today.
“After due verification and authentication of the reports received from across the country, the Sultanate Council has accepted the sighting of the new moon,” the statement said. “Consequently, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, marks the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH.”
Meanwhile, the Christian Lenten season also begins today, as Catholic faithful observe Ash Wednesday, marking the start of a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and reflection ahead of Easter.
Both religious observances are expected to shape spiritual activities across the country in the coming weeks.
