Muslims across Nigeria will commence the 2026 Ramadan fast today, following the official confirmation of the crescent moon, while Christians begin the Lenten season with Ash Wednesday observances.
The President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, announced that verified moon sightings were received from multiple locations nationwide and authenticated by the Sultanate Council.
In a statement issued by Sambo Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, the Muslim leader declared that Wednesday, February 18, 2026, corresponds to the first day of Ramadan 1447AH.
The Sultan, who was represented by Shehu Abubakar Ibn Garbai El-Kanemi, said the council had carefully examined and confirmed the reports before approving the commencement of the fast.
“After due verification and authentication of the reports received from across the country, the Sultanate Council has accepted the sighting of the new moon,” the statement read. “Consequently, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, marks the first day of Ramadan 1447AH.”
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection and charity.
At the same time, Christian faithful, particularly within the Catholic Church, begin Lent, a 40-day season of fasting, penitence and spiritual preparation leading to Easter. Ash Wednesday services are being held in churches nationwide to mark the start of the solemn period.
With both holy seasons commencing on the same day this year, millions of Nigerians from the two faith communities are entering simultaneous periods of devotion and spiritual reflection.
