Nigeria’s Muslim community will commence the 2026 Ramadan fast on Wednesday, February 18, following an official announcement from the Sultanate Council of Sokoto.
A statement issued Tuesday night from the palace of the Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III confirmed that verified reports of the crescent moon’s appearance were received from several parts of the country.
According to the council, the confirmed moon sighting signals the start of Ramadan 1447AH, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
The period is regarded as sacred by Muslims globally and is observed through fasting and heightened spiritual devotion.
“Reports of the sighting of the moon were received from various locations across the country,” the statement noted.
Consequently, the Sultanate formally declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of fasting in Nigeria.
Ramadan is one of the fundamental pillars of Islam.
During the month, Muslims abstain from food and drink between dawn and sunset, dedicate more time to prayer, and increase acts of charity and reflection.