The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, has directed Muslims across the country to look out for the crescent of Ramadan immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, corresponding to 29 Sha’aban 1447 A.H.
The directive was issued by the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of NSCIA, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, in a statement released on Sunday and signed by the Secretary-General of the Council, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede.
According to the statement, the Ramadan crescent, which signals the commencement of the Islamic month of fasting, should be observed after sunset on the specified date.
The Council disclosed that the National Moon Sighting Committee, in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency, has put necessary facilities in place to monitor and confirm credible sightings.
It stated that if the crescent is sighted on Tuesday evening, the Sultan would officially declare Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447 A.H.
“If, however, the crescent is not sighted that day, then Thursday, 19 February 2026, automatically becomes the first of Ramadan, 1447 A.H.,” the statement said.
The NSCIA added that details of traditional rulers, religious leaders and members of the National Moon Sighting Committee to be contacted in the event of a credible sighting are available on its website.
Beyond the Ramadan announcement, the Council raised concerns over what it described as increasing Islamophobic narratives in the country over the past year.
It alleged attempts to criminalise Islam through narratives “inconsistent with the reality of insecurity in Nigeria.”
“Muslims are being asked to denounce what they did not endorse, while those who have been victims of attacks are being framed as aggressors,” the statement read.
The Council further claimed that Muslims have become “double victims,” stating that they are major victims of insurgency and banditry, while also facing negative narratives that, according to it, erase Muslim suffering.
“The culture of inequality against Muslims is being entrenched because Christians have foreign powers to defend them while Muslims appear defenceless,” it added.
On the political front, the NSCIA said it had received complaints following the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, that presidential elections would hold during Ramadan, with governorship polls expected around Eid al-Fitr.
The Council said it was monitoring developments and expressed hope for an immediate review.
It, however, urged Muslims to remain calm, steadfast and committed to the virtues of the holy month despite prevailing challenges, praying for peace and tranquillity in the country.
The NSCIA also prayed that Allah grants Muslims the opportunity to witness and complete the 1447 A.H. Ramadan in good health and devotion.
