The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Muslims across Nigeria to search for the crescent of Ramadan immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, corresponding to 29 Sha’aban 1447 A.H.
The announcement was made by the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of NSCIA, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Council’s Secretary-General, Prof Is-haq Oloyede.
The Council noted that the National Moon Sighting Committee, in coordination with the National Space Research and Development Agency, has set up facilities to monitor and confirm credible sightings. If the crescent is sighted on Tuesday evening, Wednesday, February 18, will mark the first day of Ramadan. If not, Thursday, February 19, 2026, will automatically begin the holy month. The statement provided contact details of traditional rulers, religious leaders, and committee members for reporting confirmed sightings on the NSCIA website.
Beyond the Ramadan announcement, NSCIA expressed concern over what it described as rising Islamophobic narratives in the country, highlighting attempts to criminalise the faith and unfair media portrayals. The Council cited the tragic killing of about 200 Muslims in Kwara State as an example of underreported violence against Muslim communities.
Read Also;
Sokoto Approves ₦1bn Ramadan Feeding Programme, Targets 34,000 Meals Daily
The Council also addressed political concerns, noting complaints over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s decision to hold presidential elections during Ramadan, with some gubernatorial polls likely coinciding with Eid al-Fitr. NSCIA urged authorities to review the schedule to respect the religious observance.
The statement concluded with prayers for peace, protection, and unity in Nigeria, encouraging Muslims to remain steadfast, patient, and devoted throughout Ramadan 1447 A.H.
