Sultanate Council declares Wednesday as first day of Ramadan

The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447AH, declaring Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of fasting for Muslims across Nigeria.

In a statement released on Tuesday, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, announced that the new moon was sighted on Tuesday, February 17, corresponding to the 29th day of Sha’aban 1447AH.

The Sultan, who was represented by the Abubakar Ibn Garbai El-Kanemi, disclosed that verified reports of moon sightings were received from various parts of the country and were carefully authenticated and accepted by the council, thereby confirming the commencement of the holy month.

“After due verification and authentication of the reports received from across the country, the Sultanate Council has accepted the sighting of the new moon. Consequently, Wednesday, 18th February 2026, marks the first day of Ramadan 1447AH,” the statement said.

The council noted that due to the Sultan’s temporary absence, the formal public announcement was made by the Shehu of Borno on behalf of the Sultanate Council, in line with established tradition.

The Sultan urged Muslims nationwide to dedicate the holy month to prayers, spiritual reflection and acts of charity, while seeking divine guidance and peace for Nigeria.

“Ramadan is a period of sacrifice, self-discipline and compassion. I call on all Muslims to use this sacred month to pray for the unity, stability and progress of our dear country, and for wisdom and guidance for our leaders at all levels,” he said.

The commencement of Ramadan signals the start of a month-long fast observed daily from dawn to sunset by millions of Muslims across Nigeria and globally, reinforcing values of faith, solidarity and communal harmony.

Religious leaders across states have begun mobilising worshippers for Taraweeh prayers, charity outreach and community feeding programmes, underscoring Ramadan’s enduring message of devotion and national renewal.