Shehu of Borno Announces Ramadan 2026 Start as Sultan of Sokoto is Abroad
In a significant religious announcement, the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Umar Elkanemi Garbai Al-Amin, has declared the commencement of Ramadan 2026 fasting for Muslims across Nigeria. This announcement was made on Tuesday evening, February 17, 2026, following verified moon sightings across various regions of the country.
Acting on Behalf of the Sultanate Council
The Shehu of Borno, who serves as the vice-chairman of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), made this announcement acting on behalf of the Sultan of Sokoto. The Council confirmed that due to the Sultan's temporary absence from Nigeria, the formal public declaration was appropriately delegated to the Shehu of Borno in accordance with established tradition and protocol.
The Borno monarch stated: "After due verification and authentication of the reports received from across the country, the Sultanate Council has accepted the sighting of the new moon. Consequently, Wednesday, 18th February 2026, marks the first day of Ramadan 1447AH."
This announcement followed careful authentication of moon sighting reports from multiple locations throughout Nigeria, confirming the beginning of the holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection for millions of Muslim faithful.
First Lady's Ramadan Message
Meanwhile, Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, released a special Ramadan message as the holy month commenced. In a statement posted on the social media platform X by her aide Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady extended felicitations to Muslim faithful and called for prayers for national peace and prosperity.
Senator Tinubu's message emphasized: "I felicitate with the Muslim faithful as you commence this blessed month of Ramadan. I pray this Holy month bring you and your family and the nation as a whole, peace, joy, and spiritual fulfilment. During this holy month of fasting and prayers, I urge us all to remember our beloved nation in prayers for greater peace and prosperity."
The Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan holds profound religious importance for Muslims worldwide as it commemorates the revelation of the first verses of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad over 1,400 years ago. This holy month represents one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside:
- The Muslim declaration of faith
- Daily prayers
- Charity (Zakat)
- Performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca for those physically and financially capable
The fasting period involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset, serving as a time for spiritual purification, self-discipline, and increased devotion.
Regional Confirmations and Preparations
Earlier announcements had already indicated the Ramadan commencement date. Muslim leaders in Yorubaland confirmed through the League of Imams and Alfas that fasting would begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. This determination was made using astronomical calculations and international Islamic resolutions during a key meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The announcement by the Shehu of Borno represents the official national declaration, carrying the authority of the Sultanate Council and the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. This procedural delegation during the Sultan's absence demonstrates the established mechanisms within Nigeria's Islamic leadership structure for maintaining religious continuity and guidance.
