The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has directed Muslims across the country to begin the search for the 2026 Ramadan crescent on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The announcement, issued by the Sultan of Sokoto, will determine whether fasting begins on Wednesday, February 18, or Thursday, February 19. The directive affects millions of Muslims nationwide, including those in Kwara State.
The Facts
- The NSCIA asked Muslims to look for the Ramadan crescent on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
- The date corresponds to 29 Sha’aban 1447 A.H.
- The directive was issued by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
- The statement was signed by NSCIA Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede.
- If the crescent is sighted, Ramadan begins Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
- If not sighted, fasting starts Thursday, February 19, 2026.
- Moon sightings should be reported through recognised traditional rulers, religious leaders, and members of the National Moon Sighting Committee.
What Happened
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has issued a formal directive ahead of the 2026 Ramadan period.
According to the statement released on Sunday, February 15, Muslims across Nigeria are to begin observing the skies for the new moon of Ramadan 1447 A.H. immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17.
The announcement clarifies that the official start of fasting will depend strictly on the confirmed sighting of the crescent.
If the moon is sighted that evening, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will be declared the first day of Ramadan. If there is no confirmed sighting, Thursday, February 19, 2026, will automatically mark the beginning of fasting.
Where and Who Is Affected
The directive applies to Muslims nationwide, including communities across Ilorin and other parts of Kwara State.
Mosques, Islamic organizations, and community leaders in Kwara typically align with the Sultan’s declaration when announcing the start of Ramadan. The announcement is therefore significant for families, schools, Islamic institutions, and businesses making preparations for the holy month.
In Kwara, Ramadan often influences work schedules, school routines, market activities, and religious programming. Early clarity on the sighting date allows residents to plan accordingly.
Monitoring and Reporting Process
The NSCIA stated that the National Moon Sighting Committee, working alongside the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), has put measures in place to ensure credible monitoring.
Muslims who observe the crescent are advised to report sightings through recognised traditional rulers, religious leaders, and members of the National Moon Sighting Committee.
The council emphasized that the final declaration rests with the Sultan after verification.
Background and Wider Concerns
Beyond the crescent announcement, the statement also addressed broader national issues.
The council expressed concerns about what it described as double standards in public reactions to religious matters in Nigeria. It noted that Muslims are sometimes pressured to condemn actions they neither supported nor participated in, while also referencing security challenges affecting Muslim communities.
The statement mentioned past incidents involving insecurity and noted that Muslim communities have suffered casualties in various attacks, including incidents reportedly affecting residents in parts of Kwara State.
Political Calendar Concerns
The NSCIA also raised concerns regarding the electoral timetable announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stating that some scheduled election dates may fall within Ramadan or coincide with Eid al-Fitr.
The council said it is monitoring developments and expressed hope that adjustments may be considered where necessary.
However, Muslims were urged to remain calm, disciplined, and committed to good conduct during Ramadan despite prevailing national challenges.
What Happens Next
All attention now turns to the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
If the crescent is confirmed, the Sultan will formally announce the commencement of Ramadan the following day. If not, the start date automatically shifts by one day.
Residents across Kwara and Nigeria are expected to await the official declaration before commencing fasting.
Source
Sources: Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Legit.ng
