The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has confirmed the sighting of the new moon of Ramadan 1447AH, directing Muslims across Nigeria to begin fasting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
According to a statement issued by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs and Waziri Sokoto, the Sultanate Advisory Council on Religious Affairs, in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee, received and verified reports from moon sighting committees across the country. The reports confirmed the visibility of the new crescent, officially marking the start of the holy month.
The announcement signals the beginning of a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims, emphasizing spiritual discipline and community observance. The Sultan urged Nigerians to observe Ramadan with devotion and unity, adhering to the tenets of Islam during the month.
The confirmation also serves as guidance for Islamic organizations, mosques, and individual worshippers nationwide, providing clarity on the start date of fasting to avoid discrepancies in observance. Moon sighting committees in various states had submitted independent observations, which were consolidated and authenticated by the Sultanate Advisory Council before the official declaration.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time when Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to sunset. The month is considered sacred, commemorating the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.
The Sultan’s directive ensures that Muslims across Nigeria begin fasting simultaneously, fostering unity and cohesion in religious practice. Faith leaders and local mosques are expected to disseminate the announcement widely to ensure nationwide compliance.
