The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has urged Muslims across the country to search for the crescent of Ramadan immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, corresponding to 29 Sha’aban 1447 A.H.
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the NSCIA, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, made the declaration in a statement issued Sunday and signed by the Council’s Secretary-General, Is-haq Oloyede.
According to the statement, the crescent should be observed after sunset on the specified date. The National Moon Sighting Committee, working in consultation with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), has put facilities in place to monitor and confirm credible sightings.
The Council explained that if the crescent is sighted on Tuesday evening, the Sultan will declare Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447 A.H. However, if the moon is not sighted, Thursday, February 19, 2026, will automatically become the first day of Ramadan.
Details of traditional rulers, religious leaders, and members of the National Moon Sighting Committee to be contacted in the event of credible sightings are available on the Council’s official platform.
Beyond the Ramadan announcement, the NSCIA expressed concern over what it described as rising Islamophobic narratives in Nigeria over the past year.
The Council said Muslims have faced attempts to criminalise the faith through narratives it considers inconsistent with the realities of insecurity in the country. It referenced past and recent incidents involving individuals of different religious backgrounds, alleging double standards in media reporting and public discourse.
According to the statement, Muslims are often asked to denounce actions they did not endorse, while victims of attacks are sometimes portrayed as aggressors.
The Council further stated that Muslims have been major victims of violent groups such as Boko Haram and bandits, yet their suffering is frequently underreported. It warned against what it termed a growing culture of inequality and negative stereotyping.
On the political front, the NSCIA disclosed that it had received complaints following the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the 2027 presidential elections would be held during Ramadan, with governorship polls potentially coinciding with Eid al-Fitr.
The Council said it is closely monitoring the development and expressed hope that the situation would be reviewed.
The NSCIA encouraged Muslims to remain calm, steadfast, and committed to the virtues of patience, charity, and devotion during the holy month despite prevailing national challenges.
It prayed for peace, protection, and tranquillity in Nigeria, asking that Allah grant Muslims the opportunity to witness and complete Ramadan 1447 A.H. in good health and spiritual fulfilment.
