The Sa’ad Abubakar III has declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan 1447AH.

The announcement followed the sighting of the crescent moon on Tuesday, the 29th day of Sha’aban, in various parts of the country.

In a press statement issued in Sokoto and signed by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Wali Junaid, the Sultan called on Muslims across Nigeria to commence fasting on Wednesday in accordance with Islamic teachings.

According to the statement, the Sultanate Council received confirmed reports of the moon sighting from Islamic leaders across the country, signifying the official commencement of the Ramadan fast.

The Sultan urged Muslims to use the sacred month for fervent prayers, particularly for peace and stability, as well as an end to insecurity affecting parts of the country. He also encouraged continued prayers for the nation’s leaders.

Earlier, authorities in Saudi Arabia had announced the sighting of the crescent moon, declaring Wednesday as the first day of Ramadan.