Sultan OF Sokoto Confirms Moon Sighting, Declares First Day Of Ramadan

The Sultan of Sokoto, Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar III, has confirmed sighting the crescent moon in almost every part of the country.

He said the sighting was on Tuesday, the 29th day of the month of Sha’aban, signifying that Wednesday, February 18, is the first day of Ramadan 1447

He has thus declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

A press statement made available to newsmen in Sokoto on Tuesday and signed by the Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Professor Sambo Wali Junaid,  said the Sultan has called on the entire Muslim community in the country to c mence the fast on Wednesday in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

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The Sultan of Sokoto, the statement added said the council received reports of the moon sighting from many Islamic leaders across the country, which signifies the commencement of the Ramadan fast on Wednesday.

He used the opportunity to call for prayers for the country.