Saudi Arabia sights Ramadan crescent moon, as Nigerian Muslims await Sultan
The holy month of Ramadan is officially set to commence as the crescent moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday evening.
Authorities in the Kingdom, via the Saudi-based media platform Haramain, confirmed the sighting, marking the end of Sha’ban and the beginning of the blessed month. Consequently, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will be observed as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH.
Sighting details
The moon-sighting exercise took place at the dedicated observatories in Hawtat Sudair and Tumair within the Al-Majma’ah Governorate.
Earlier in the day, Abdulaziz Al-Muainaa of the Al Hareeq Observatory noted that weather conditions were optimal for the sighting, with the sun setting at approximately 5:52 pm local time.
Following the confirmation, Haramain released a statement:
“The crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, Ramadan 1447 will begin tonight. May Allah accept our siyam (fasting), qiyam (prayers), and acts of worship.”
Nigerian Muslims await Sultan’s declaration
While the news from Saudi Arabia sets the pace for many globally, Muslims in Nigeria are traditionally guided by the local moon-sighting results and the official announcement from the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence, Alh. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.
The Sultan had previously urged the Nigerian Muslim Ummah to look out for the crescent moon starting Tuesday. An official declaration regarding the commencement of the fast in Nigeria is expected shortly.
Significance of the holy month
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest period of the year. It commemorates the revelation of the Holy Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Throughout the month, Muslims engage in Siyam (Fasting) from dawn until sunset, focusing on prayers, charity, and spiritual reflection.
