The Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has directed Muslims across the country to commence sighting of the Ramadan crescent on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to determine the start of the 1447 A.H. fasting period.
According to a statement from the Council, if the new moon is sighted on Tuesday, Ramadan will commence on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Should visibility conditions prove unfavorable, the holy month will begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
NSCIA Secretary-General Prof. Is-haq Oloyede used the announcement to highlight mounting concerns facing Nigeria’s Muslim community, including what he described as “heightened Islamophobic hysteria, persistent insecurity, and perceived media bias against Muslims.”
The Council specifically criticized Nigerian media outlets for what it termed a failure to maintain objectivity. “The media have consistently failed to uphold the principles of truth, fairness and objectivity in matters concerning Muslims,” the statement noted.
The NSCIA also took aim at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its decision to schedule the 2027 elections during the Ramadan period. Describing the timing as “not unexpected,” the Council demanded an immediate review of the electoral timetable. “We are watching very closely and expecting an immediate review,” Prof. Oloyede stated.
Despite these challenges, the Council called on Muslims to maintain steadfastness in their faith, citing Quranic verses emphasizing that “with hardship comes ease” and reminding believers that “Allah intends ease for you, not hardship.”
The NSCIA urged Nigerian Muslims to use Ramadan as an opportunity for spiritual reflection, repentance, and prayers for divine intervention in the nation’s affairs.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, serves as President General of the NSCIA, Nigeria’s apex Islamic body responsible for coordinating Islamic affairs nationwide.
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