The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Muslims across Nigeria to commence the search for the new moon of Ramadan 1447 AH on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
The directive was contained in an official statement issued on Tuesday by the Sultanate Council in Sokoto. The statement was signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Junaidu.
According to the statement, Muslims who sight the crescent moon after sunset on Tuesday are expected to promptly report the sighting to the Sultan through designated contact numbers provided by the council.
“Muslims across the country are hereby requested to look out for the new moon of Ramadan 1447 AH on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, and to report any credible sighting to the Sultan of Sokoto immediately,” the statement said.
It added that all reports would be carefully verified before an official announcement is made regarding the commencement of the Ramadan fast.
The Sultan also appealed to Muslims to conduct the moon sighting exercise with honesty, fear of God, and a strong sense of religious responsibility, noting that only verified and authentic reports would form the basis of the final decision.
In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, as the spiritual leader of Muslims and head of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, traditionally announces the beginning and end of Ramadan after consultations with Islamic scholars and moon sighting committees nationwide.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by Muslims through fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, self-discipline, and acts of charity.
The holy month ends with the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the completion of the fasting period.
