The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moonsighting Committee, officially declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH. This declaration followed confirmed reports received from various Moonsighting Committees across Nigeria, indicating the sighting of the new crescent moon on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, which marked the 29th day of Sha’aban. His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), accepted these reports and made the official announcement.

A statement confirming the declaration was signed by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs and Wazirin Sokoto. The statement conveyed the Sultan’s felicitations to the Nigeria Muslim Ummah, wishing them Allah’s guidance and blessings for the Holy Month.

Furthermore, the Sultan urged the Muslim faithful across the country to use the sacred period of Ramadan to pray earnestly for peace, progress, and development in Nigeria. He specifically called for prayers against the insecurity affecting various parts of the nation and encouraged continuous prayers for the country's leaders, seeking divine intervention in addressing ongoing challenges. His Eminence concluded by wishing all Muslims a happy Ramadan Kareem and prayed for the acceptance of their religious deeds.