The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Wednesday, 18 February 2026, as the first day of the holy month of Ramadan.In a statement issued in Sokoto on Tuesday and signed by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Wali Junaid, the Sultan said the declaration followed the sighting of the crescent moon in various parts of the country.

The statement noted that Tuesday marked the 29th day of Sha’aban 1447 AH, thereby confirming Wednesday, 18 February 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH.It called on Muslims across Nigeria to begin the Ramadan fast on Wednesday in accordance with Islamic teachings.The council said it received verified reports of the moon sighting from Islamic leaders nationwide, signalling the official commencement of the fasting period.

The Sultan urged Muslims to use the holy month to pray for peace, unity, and stability in the country, particularly in view of the security challenges affecting some regions. The council said it received verified reports of the moon sighting from Islamic leaders nationwide, signalling the official commencement of the fasting period.

The Sultan urged Muslims to use the holy month to pray for peace, unity, and stability in the country, particularly in view of the security challenges affecting some regions.

He also called on Muslims to dedicate the period to prayers for Nigeria’s leaders and for lasting peace and security across the nation.