Sultanate Confirms Ramadan Crescent Sightings in Nigeria for 2026
The Sultanate of Sokoto has officially confirmed receiving reports of Ramadan crescent sightings from three distinct locations across Nigeria, marking the beginning of the holy month for 2026. This announcement was made on Tuesday night, February 17, 2026, through a statement by Umar Jubril Simwal, a close associate of Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, the 20th Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).
Verification and Official Announcement
According to Simwal, the sightings were thoroughly verified by authorities in the respective areas where they occurred. He emphasized that the verification process ensures the accuracy and reliability of the reports, which are crucial for determining the start of Ramadan, a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims worldwide.
In a post on the social media platform X, Simwal stated, "His Eminence is currently abroad, and an official announcement will soon be made by the Shehu of Borno, who is the deputy president general of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs." This indicates that while the Sultan is out of the country, the Shehu of Borno will oversee the formal declaration, highlighting the collaborative efforts within Nigeria's Islamic leadership.
Significance of Crescent Sighting
The sighting of the crescent moon holds immense religious significance in Islam, as it traditionally marks the commencement of Ramadan. This annual event involves meticulous observation and confirmation by religious authorities to align with lunar cycles. The confirmation from multiple locations in Nigeria underscores the widespread participation and adherence to Islamic traditions across the nation.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to bring together millions of Nigerian Muslims in fasting from dawn to sunset, engaging in increased prayers, and performing acts of charity. The early verification of the crescent sightings allows communities to prepare adequately for the holy month, fostering unity and spiritual growth.
Background and Context
Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, as the Sultan of Sokoto and head of the NSCIA, plays a pivotal role in coordinating Islamic affairs in Nigeria, including the announcement of religious dates. The National Moonsighting Committee, of which Simwal is a prominent member, is instrumental in this process, ensuring that sightings are authenticated according to Islamic principles.
This development follows standard procedures for Ramadan declarations in Nigeria, where local sightings are reported to central authorities for validation. The involvement of the Shehu of Borno as deputy president general of the NSCIA further reinforces the decentralized yet cohesive structure of Islamic leadership in the country.
As the official announcement is awaited from the Shehu of Borno, Muslims across Nigeria are encouraged to stay informed through reliable sources. The confirmation of crescent sightings sets the stage for a spiritually enriching Ramadan, emphasizing faith, community, and devotion in the Nigerian Islamic calendar for 2026.
