The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH.
The announcement followed confirmed sightings of the crescent moon across several parts of the country on Tuesday, marking the 29th day of Sha’aban.
In a statement issued in Sokoto, the Sultan said reports from various moonsighting committees verified the commencement of the holy month.
The declaration was made after consultations between the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs and the National Moonsighting Committee.
As President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, the monarch accepted the reports and urged Muslims nationwide to begin fasting on Wednesday.
He called on the faithful to devote the sacred period to prayer, reflection and acts of charity in line with Islamic teachings.
The Sultan also appealed to Muslims to pray for national peace and stability amid persistent security challenges in parts of the country.
He encouraged sustained prayers for Nigeria’s leaders, seeking divine guidance and solutions to insecurity and other pressing concerns.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, spiritual renewal and community solidarity.
