Manny Ita –
The Sa’ad Abubakar III has directed Muslims across Nigeria to begin searching for the Ramadan crescent moon on Tuesday evening after sunset, signaling the imminent commencement of the Islamic holy month. The directive, issued through the office of the Sultanate Council, stated that if the new moon is sighted, fasting will begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
In an official statement, the Sultan urged Muslims to look out for the crescent on the 29th day of Sha’aban, in accordance with Islamic tradition. “Muslims are requested to start looking for the new moon of Ramadan 1447 AH immediately after sunset on Tuesday,” the statement said, adding that verified sightings should be reported to designated district heads or religious authorities for confirmation.
The council explained that the announcement of the start of Ramadan would depend strictly on authenticated reports of moon sighting from across the country. “If the crescent is sighted by reliable witnesses, His Eminence will declare Wednesday, February 18, as the first day of Ramadan fasting,” the statement noted.
Religious leaders across various states have also begun sensitising worshippers on the spiritual significance of the period, urging them to prepare for a month of fasting, prayer, charity, and reflection. Mosques are expected to intensify evening prayers and community activities once the commencement of Ramadan is officially confirmed.
The Sultan, who serves as the spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims, called for unity and peaceful observance of the holy month, while encouraging the faithful to pray for the nation. He also reminded Muslims to support the needy during the fasting period and to uphold values of patience, compassion, and discipline.
If the crescent is not sighted on Tuesday evening, Sha’aban will complete 30 days, and Ramadan fasting will begin the following day in line with Islamic jurisprudence. Muslims nationwide are therefore awaiting the official declaration from the Sultanate Council, which traditionally marks the formal start of Ramadan in Nigeria.
