The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH following the sighting of the new moon.
In a statement issued by the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, the decision followed reports received from various moonsighting committees across the country confirming the sighting of the new moon on Tuesday, February 17, corresponding to the 29th day of Sha’aban 1447AH.
The Sultan, who is also President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, accepted the reports and formally announced the commencement of the holy month. He felicitated with the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and urged them to dedicate the period to prayers for peace, progress and development of the country. He also wished Muslims a happy Ramadan and prayed for the acceptance of their acts of worship.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda
Reacting to the announcement, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, congratulated Muslims in Katsina State and across Nigeria on the commencement of the sacred month.
Governor Radda described Ramadan as a blessed season of spiritual renewal, divine mercy and communal solidarity. He called on Muslims to use the opportunity to draw closer to Almighty Allah through fasting, prayers, recitation of the Qur’an and acts of charity.
The governor urged the faithful to offer special prayers for peace, security and development in Katsina State and Nigeria, noting that the state and the nation face challenges that require divine intervention and sustained supplication for leaders at all levels.
He further encouraged Muslims to demonstrate the true spirit of Ramadan by showing compassion to the less privileged, feeding the hungry and supporting the needy within their communities.
Governor Radda wished all Muslims a blessed, fulfilling and spiritually rewarding Ramadan.
