The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has called on Muslims across the country to look out for the crescent that will signal the beginning of Ramadan 1447AH.
The directive was issued by the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of NSCIA, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, who urged faithful to search for the new moon immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, corresponding to 29 Sha’aban 1447AH.
In a statement signed by the Secretary General of NSCIA, Prof Is-haq Oloyede, the council explained that the sighting of the crescent would determine the commencement of fasting for the holy month of Ramadan.
The statement noted that the crescent should be observed after sunset on the specified date. It added that the National Moon Sighting Committee, in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency, has put necessary facilities in place to monitor and verify credible reports from across the country.
According to the council, if the crescent is sighted on Tuesday evening, the Sultan will declare Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH. However, if the moon is not sighted, Thursday, February 19, 2026, will automatically become the first day of Ramadan.
Beyond the crescent announcement, the council expressed concern over what it described as rising Islamophobic narratives in parts of the country. It said Muslims have faced attempts to criminalise the faith through narratives that do not reflect the realities of insecurity in Nigeria.
The statement alleged that Muslims are often asked to denounce actions they did not endorse, while victims of attacks are sometimes portrayed as aggressors. It added that Muslims remain among the major victims of insurgency and banditry, yet their suffering is frequently overlooked.
On the political front, the council disclosed that it had received complaints following the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission that presidential elections would be conducted during Ramadan, with gubernatorial polls projected to hold around Eid al Fitr. The council said it was monitoring developments and expressed hope for a review.
It urged Muslims to remain calm, steadfast and devoted during the forthcoming Ramadan, praying for peace, protection and stability in the country.
The council also prayed that Allah would grant Muslims the grace to witness and complete the Ramadan fast in good health and spiritual fulfilment.
