NSCIA Directs Muslims to Observe Crescent February 17 for Ramadan 1447AH

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Muslims across the country to search for the crescent of Ramadan 1447 A.H. immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, corresponding to 29th Sha’aban 1447 A.H.

In a statement dated February 15, 2026 and signed by its Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the Council congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the forthcoming fasting season and urged strict adherence to Shari’ah guidelines on moon sighting. The statement was issued under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of NSCIA, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.

Quoting Qur’an 2:185, the Council stated, “So, whoever among you witnesses the month, let the person fast in it…,” adding that the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC) has put necessary mechanisms in place to monitor credible reports. The NMSC, it noted, is working in consultation with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to ensure accurate and official observation of the crescent.

The Council explained that if the crescent is sighted on Tuesday evening, the Sultan of Sokoto “shall declare Wednesday, 18th February 2026 as the first day of Ramadan.” However, if the crescent is not sighted, “Thursday, 19th February 2026 automatically becomes the first of Ramadan, 1447 A.H.”

Encouraging Muslims to remain steadfast, the Council quoted, “Inna ma’al ‘usri yusra” (Indeed, with hardship comes ease), urging believers to remain calm, committed to virtues, and devoted in prayer.

The NSCIA concluded with prayers for peace and unity in Nigeria, asking Allah to grant Muslims the opportunity to witness and complete Ramadan 1447 A.H. in good health and tranquility.