Nigeria Ramadan 2026: Seven Essential Insights as Muslims Prepare for Holy Month
Published 17 Feb 2026 at 6:40 PM by Ibrahim Sofiyullaha
While Muslims in Nigeria eagerly await an official announcement on the commencement of Ramadan 2026, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have already declared February 18 as the first day of fasting. In Nigeria, the authority to confirm the start of Ramadan rests with the Sultan of Sokoto, who relies on physical moon sighting rather than astronomical calculations, making the nation's declaration pending as of this report.
Ramadan preparations across Nigeria are intensifying, focusing on spiritual renewal, charitable acts, community bonding, and adjustments to daily routines and economic activities. As the holy month approaches, it represents a period of deep spiritual, social, and personal significance for Muslims worldwide.
Key Aspects of Ramadan 2026 in Nigeria
- Ninth Month of Hijra Calendar: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, beginning with the sighting of the new crescent moon. In Nigeria, Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, traditionally announces the start, with Muslims awaiting his pronouncement before observing the fast.
- Month of Solemn Reflection: Beyond fasting from food and drink, Ramadan calls for inner reflection, moral discipline, and self-control. Muslims are encouraged to prepare spiritually by renewing intentions, increasing Qur’an recitation, and seeking reconciliation, emphasizing patience and ethical conduct.
- Economic Boost: Economic activities shift during Ramadan, with markets experiencing increased patronage for food items used in pre-dawn meals (suhoor) and breaking fasts (iftar). This often leads to noticeable price changes for staples like fruits and vegetables, impacting local economies.
- Increase in Charitable Acts: Charitable giving becomes paramount, with financially able Muslims expected to pay zakat and engage in voluntary sadaqah to support vulnerable community members, fostering a spirit of generosity and social support.
- Month of Serious Ibadah: Religious activities heighten, with mosques hosting communal prayers, tafsir sessions, and night prayers. Families and neighbors gather at sunset to break fast together, strengthening social bonds and communal unity.
- Pilgrimage to Mecca for Umrah: Ramadan draws millions of worshippers to Mecca and Medina for Umrah, combining pilgrimage with fasting, enhancing spiritual devotion during the holy month.
- Medical Experts Advise: Health experts recommend moderation during fasting, advising balanced meals at suhoor and iftar, adequate hydration, and proper rest to cope with long fasting hours and maintain well-being.
As Muslims in Nigeria await the moon sighting, Ramadan 2026 continues to symbolize a time for devotion, generosity, and personal renewal. Earlier, the Sultan declared December 22, 2025, as the start of Rajab, highlighting the ongoing Islamic calendar announcements.
