The Sultan of Sokoto has declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH after the crescent moon was sighted across several parts of Nigeria on Tuesday, February 17.
In a statement signed by Sambo Junaid, Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, the Sultan said the National Moonsighting Committee confirmed reports of the new moon on the 29th day of Sha’aban 1447AH.
According to the statement, the Sultan, who is also President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), accepted the reports and directed Muslims nationwide to commence fasting on Wednesday in line with Islamic teachings.
He urged Muslims to use the holy month to pray for peace and solutions to insecurity, as well as for the nation’s leaders.
Meanwhile, Christians in Nigeria and around the world are observing Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent a 40-day season of fasting, repentance, and spiritual reflection leading to Easter.
Ash Wednesday is observed by several Western Christian denominations, including the Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian, Nazarene, and Moravian churches. Worshippers receive ashes on their foreheads in the shape of a cross, symbolising human mortality and spiritual renewal.
The simultaneous observance of Ramadan and the Lenten season highlights a period of deep spiritual devotion for millions of Muslims and Christians in Nigeria and globally.
