By Adesakin Adefemi
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has urged Muslims across the country to look for the new moon of Ramadan immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, which corresponds to 29 Sha’aban 1447 A.H.
The call was made by the Sultan of Sokoto and President‑General of NSCIA, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, in a press statement signed by NSCIA Secretary‑General Prof. Is‑haq Oloyede.
The Ramadan crescent marks the start of the holy month, and its sighting determines when fasting begins. The council emphasized that observations should be made right after sunset on the specified date, noting that the National Moon Sighting Committee, in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency, has deployed facilities to monitor and verify credible sightings.
If the crescent is observed on Tuesday evening, the Sultan will declare Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447 A.H. Should the moon remain unseen, Thursday, February 19, 2026, will automatically become the first day of fasting. Details of traditional rulers, religious leaders and committee members to contact for credible sightings are available on the NSCIA website.
Beyond the moon‑sighting announcement, the NSCIA expressed concern over rising Islamophobic narratives in Nigeria over the past year. It accused some media outlets of “criminalising” the faith and creating double standards in reporting, which it says leaves Muslims feeling like “double victims” of both violent attacks and negative stereotyping.
The council cited recent incidents, including the underreported killing of about 200 Muslims in Kwara State, and argued that Muslims are often portrayed as aggressors while their suffering is erased. It warned that such narratives entrench inequality and make Muslims appear defenceless compared to other religious groups.
On the political front, the NSCIA noted complaints after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that presidential elections would hold during Ramadan, with gubernatorial polls possibly on Eid al‑Fitri. The council said it is monitoring the situation and hopes for a review to avoid clashing with religious observances.
The NSCIA urged Muslims to remain steadfast, calm and committed to virtues throughout Ramadan despite prevailing challenges. It prayed for peace, protection and tranquillity in Nigeria, asking Allah to grant believers the opportunity to witness and complete the 1447 A.H. fast in good health and devotion.
Security agencies have been asked to stay vigilant during the moon‑sighting period, as large gatherings for prayers and observations are expected across the country. Local moon‑sighting committees in states such as Kano, Sokoto, and Borno have already mobilised volunteers to report any sightings promptly.
Community leaders have welcomed the Sultan’s directive, stressing that a unified start to Ramadan fosters national cohesion. They encouraged citizens to use the occasion to promote inter‑faith understanding and to avoid spreading unverified information that could heighten tensions.
As the nation awaits the crescent, Muslims prepare for a month of fasting, reflection and charity, while the NSCIA continues to advocate for fair treatment and accurate representation of the Muslim community in public discourse.
