Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs Declares Ramadan 2026 Commencement
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has officially announced the commencement of Ramadan 2026, calling on Muslims across the country to begin the holy month of fasting while urging steadfastness amid ongoing challenges facing their communities. The council confirmed that the crescent moon for Ramadan should be sighted on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th day of Sha'aban 1447 A.H., under the leadership of its President-General and Amirul Mumineen, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar.
Moon Sighting and Ramadan Start Date
According to the NSCIA's declaration, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will mark the first day of Ramadan if the crescent moon is successfully observed on Tuesday evening. Should the moon not be sighted on that date, the holy month will instead commence on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC), working in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), has already begun monitoring the appearance of the crescent moon and will advise Muslim leaders accordingly throughout the observation process.
Addressing Community Challenges
In a special message directed to the Muslim community, the NSCIA acknowledged that Nigerian Muslims have faced numerous challenges in recent years. The council specifically highlighted growing Islamophobic narratives, persistent attacks by insurgents and bandits, and perceived bias in media reporting as significant concerns. The statement referenced specific incidents in Southern Kaduna, Kwara, Kebbi, and Maiduguri, expressing concern about how Muslims are sometimes framed as aggressors in conflict situations.
Understanding Ramadan Traditions
Ramadan represents a sacred period observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting, prayer, and reflection. According to Islamic tradition, fasting begins at dawn each day, preceded by a modest meal known as 'suhoor,' and concludes at sunset with the 'Iftar' meal. During daylight hours, participating Muslims abstain from all food and drink, including water, as an act of spiritual discipline and devotion. Ramadan fasting is considered compulsory for all adult Muslims who are physically able to participate, serving as a time for increased holiness and refraining from ungodly behavior.
Regional Announcements and Historical Context
Separately, the League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta states had previously announced Ramadan commencement dates for 2025, indicating that regional Islamic authorities often make their own declarations based on local observations. According to a statement from the office of the Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, tarawih prayers for 2025 were scheduled for Friday, February 28, with fasting beginning on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The statement emphasized that this announcement followed decades of established practice and resulted from extensive consultations with leadership and professionals within the League of Imams and Alfas.
The NSCIA's announcement comes as Muslim communities worldwide prepare for the holy month, which varies in celebration traditions across different regions but universally emphasizes spiritual reflection, community gatherings for Iftar meals, household decorations, and traditional foods marking the arrival of this significant religious period.
