Ramadan 2026 Projected to Begin February 19 with Shorter Fasting Hours Across Nigeria
Muslim communities in Nigeria and around the world are preparing for Ramadan 2026, with astronomical calculations projecting the holy month will commence on Thursday, February 19, 2026. This timing places Ramadan during the transition from winter to early spring in the northern hemisphere, resulting in significantly shorter fasting hours compared to recent years when the holy month fell during demanding summer periods.
Fasting Duration and Daily Routine in Nigeria
In Nigeria, worshippers can expect consistent daily fasting periods of approximately 13 hours and 10 minutes throughout the holy month. Due to Nigeria's equatorial position, there will be minimal variation in fasting duration between major cities including Kano, Abuja, and Lagos. The daily spiritual routine will typically feature Suhoor concluding in the early dawn hours, with Iftar beginning shortly after 6:30 PM, creating a stable rhythm for devotion and worship across the nation.
Important to note that astronomical predictions are not definitive regarding the start and end of Ramadan. The final declaration remains subject to manual moon sighting and official confirmation by the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, with the Sultan of Sokoto traditionally making the announcement.
Regional Variations in Fasting Hours
Across most Arab nations, daily fasting durations are expected to range between 12 and 13 hours, making Ramadan 2026 one of the shorter fasting periods observed in recent memory. Specific projections include:
- Egypt: Fasting in Cairo expected to begin at approximately 12 hours and 40 minutes, gradually approaching 13 hours as Ramadan progresses
- Gulf States: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman all anticipated to remain within the 12-13 hour range
- United States: Cities like New York projected to experience fasting starting around 12.5 hours, rising to approximately 13 hours
Geographical Factors Influencing Fasting Experience
The variation in fasting hours globally is primarily determined by geographical location and latitude. Countries situated closer to the equator, like Nigeria, experience relatively stable daylight throughout the year, resulting in consistent fasting durations. In contrast, regions farther north or south face wider seasonal variations in daylight hours.
Because Ramadan 2026 occurs before the spring equinox, many northern hemisphere locations will experience shorter days at the beginning of the month, with daylight gradually increasing as Ramadan progresses. European countries at higher latitudes, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and parts of Scandinavia, are likely to record longer fasting days than equatorial regions, though still less demanding than recent summer Ramadans.
In extreme northern regions such as northern Russia, Greenland, and Iceland, fasting can exceed 16 hours. In these areas, many Muslims follow religious guidance permitting them to observe fasting times based on the nearest moderate city or the timetable of Makkah.
Recent Islamic Calendar Announcements
Earlier announcements from Nigerian Islamic authorities have set precedents for the lunar calendar. The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Abubakar, declared Monday, December 22, 2025, as the first day of Rajab 1447 AH. This announcement was contained in an official statement released on Saturday and signed by the Wazirin Sokoto, Professor Sambo Junaidu.
As the Muslim community anticipates Ramadan 2026, the projected shorter fasting hours offer welcome relief from the physically demanding summer fasts of recent years, potentially creating more favorable conditions for spiritual reflection, prayer, and community connection during this sacred month of worship.
