Nigeria Commences Ramadan 1447AH Amid Ash Wednesday Observance

On February 18, 2026, Nigeria began Ramadan 1447AH as the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), led by Sultan Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon. The announcement followed the receipt of multiple authentic reports from various locations across the country, which were carefully examined by the Sultan Council.

Sambo Junaidu, the chairman of the advisory committee on religious affairs of the Sultan Council, issued a statement declaring the start of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, a period characterized by fasting, prayer, and reflection. This year, Ramadan coincides with Christians marking Ash Wednesday, which signals the beginning of Lent, a 40-day season of fasting and penitence leading up to Easter.

Millions of Nigerians from both faiths are entering this simultaneous period of devotion and sacrifice.