The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Muslims across the country to look out for the crescent marking the beginning of Ramadan immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, corresponding to 29 Sha’aban 1447 A.H.
The directive was issued by the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of NSCIA, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, in a statement signed by the Council’s Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, on Sunday.
The Council stated that the sighting of the new moon would determine the commencement of the 1447 A.H. Ramadan fast.
According to the statement, the National Moon Sighting Committee, in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency, has put necessary facilities in place to monitor and verify credible reports of moon sightings across the country.
If the crescent is sighted on Tuesday evening, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will be declared the first day of Ramadan. However, if it is not sighted, Thursday, February 19, 2026, will automatically become the first day of the holy month.
The Council added that details of traditional rulers, religious leaders and members of the Moon Sighting Committee to be contacted for credible reports are available on its official website.
 has called on Muslims across the country to look out for the crescent marking the beginning of Ramadan immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, corresponding to 29 Sha’aban 1447 A.H.){kind=link}