The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH, following the sighting of the crescent moon across Nigeria.
In a statement issued in Sokoto and signed by the Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Junaid, the Sultan confirmed that the new moon was sighted on Tuesday, the 29th day of Sha’aban 1447AH.
According to the statement, the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moonsighting Committee, received and verified reports from various moonsighting committees across the country confirming the development.
“His Eminence… has accepted the reports and accordingly declared Wednesday, 18th February, 2026 as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH,” the statement read in part.
The Sultan, who also serves as President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), called on Muslims throughout Nigeria to commence fasting in accordance with Islamic teachings.
He urged the faithful to use the holy month to offer prayers for peace and stability, particularly against insecurity affecting parts of the country, and to pray for the nation’s leaders as they confront ongoing security challenges.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community devotion.
