ramadan mubarak: First day of fasting in Nigeria may fall on Feb. 18 or 19 as moon sighting decision nears
Muslims in Nigeria are preparing for the start of Ramadan 2026, with the first day of fasting set to fall on either Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (ET) or Thursday, February 19, 2026 (ET) depending on local crescent-moon observations. Religious leaders say searches for the new moon will begin on Tuesday night, February 17, 2026 (ET), and the community awaits confirmation that will determine the month’s opening.
When the fast may begin
Clerics in Abuja and other regions say teams of observers will look for the Ramadan crescent on the 29th night of Sha'aban, which corresponds to Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (ET). If the crescent is sighted that evening and testimonies are accepted through the established process, the first day of fasting will be declared for Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (ET). If no valid sighting is confirmed, Sha'aban will be completed as a 30-day month and fasting will begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026 (ET).
Local practice places weight on eyewitness testimony from communities across the country. That testimony is gathered and presented to national religious figures before a formal announcement is made.
How moon sighting works in Nigeria
Nigeria continues to rely mainly on traditional, community-based moon sighting rather than centralized astronomical calculation to mark the start of Ramadan. Observers from towns and states report sightings to religious authorities, who review the accounts and identify locations where the crescent was seen. The nation’s spiritual leader for the Muslim community plays a central role in confirming and declaring the start of the month.
Religious officials say the process typically includes checks on witnesses’ credibility and the geographic spread of reports so that announcements reflect a broad consensus rather than a single claim. When the announcement is made, communities across the country begin fasting together on the declared first day.
What the month will mean for worshippers
Religious leaders are urging Muslims to view the coming month as a time for intensified worship, reflection and seeking forgiveness. They highlight that the fast can last 29 or 30 days depending on the next moon sighting that will also determine the date of Eid al-Fitr, the festival that marks the end of Ramadan.
Clerics note that the spiritual rewards of fasting are regarded as uniquely bestowed and encourage faithful observance, increased prayer and charitable acts throughout the month. Communities are already making practical preparations for congregational prayers, special night services and relief efforts for the needy.
As the Tuesday evening search approaches, congregations and families across Nigeria are preparing to follow the outcome of local moon reports, which will decide whether the greeting ramadan mubarak is exchanged beginning on February 18 or a day later on February 19, 2026 (ET).
