The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has urged Muslims nationwide to look out for the Ramadan crescent immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, which corresponds to 29 Sha’aban 1447 A.H.
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of NSCIA, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, made the declaration in a press statement issued on Sunday, signed by the Secretary-General of NSCIA, Prof Is-haq Oloyede.
Ramadan crescent is the first visible sliver of the new moon that signals the commencement of the Islamic month of Ramadan. Its sighting indicates that fasting for the holy month should begin.
The Council explained that the crescent should be observed after sunset on the stated date, noting that the National Moon Sighting Committee, working in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency, has put measures in place to track and confirm authentic reports.
According to the statement, if the crescent is sighted on Tuesday evening, the Sultan of Sokoto will proclaim Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447 A.H.
However, if the crescent is not sighted that day, then, Thursday, 19” February 2026, automatically becomes the first of Ramadan, 1447 A.H.
Beyond the Ramadan announcement, the NSCIA raised concerns over what it described as rising Islamophobic narratives in the country over the past year.
It stated that Muslims have allegedly been subjected to attempts to criminalise the faith through narratives it said do not reflect the realities of insecurity in Nigeria.
The statement cited both past and recent incidents involving individuals from different religious backgrounds, alleging double standards in media coverage and public reactions.
“Muslims are often expected to denounce actions they did not support, while victims of attacks are sometimes portrayed as aggressors.
The Council maintained that Muslims have become “double victims” suffering from terrorism, banditry and other violent acts, while also facing what it termed negative narratives that overlook Muslim casualties.
It further alleged that inequality against Muslims is being reinforced, claiming that Christians benefit from foreign support while Muslims appear without similar backing.
On the political scene, the NSCIA disclosed that it had received complaints following the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) scheduling presidential elections during Ramadan and governorship polls around a possible Eid al-Fitr period.
The Council said it is closely monitoring the situation and expressed hope that the dates would be reconsidered.
It urged Muslims to remain patient, peaceful and devoted to righteous conduct during Ramadan despite prevailing challenges, and prayed for peace, security and stability in Nigeria.
The Council also prayed that Allah grants Muslims the grace to witness and complete the 1447 A.H. Ramadan in good health and spiritual fulfilment.
