The start of Ramadan 2026 has been confirmed following the successful sighting of the crescent moon by official moon-sighting authorities in Saudi Arabia, a development closely followed by Muslims in Nigeria and across the world.
An official announcement released through the Saudi Press Agency stated that the crescent moon was sighted on Tuesday evening, leading to the declaration of Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan in the Kingdom. As is customary, this announcement serves as a key reference point for many Muslim communities globally.
In Nigeria, Muslims are paying close attention to both Saudi Arabia’s declaration and guidance from local Islamic authorities, who are expected to confirm the commencement of fasting based on moon sighting reports and established religious procedures.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and a period of deep spiritual reflection. During the holy month, Muslims fast daily from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib), abstaining from food, drink, and smoking, while dedicating more time to prayer, Qur’an recitation, and charitable acts.
Mosques in Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, and other parts of the world are preparing for increased worship activities, including nightly Isha and Taraweeh prayers, which are observed exclusively during Ramadan. Religious leaders continue to remind worshippers of the importance of compassion, patience, and generosity, especially toward the less privileged.
The month of Ramadan also witnesses an increase in Umrah pilgrimage, as many Muslims travel to Mecca, believing that acts of worship performed during Ramadan carry multiplied spiritual rewards.
As the holy month begins, Muslims in Nigeria and around the world prepare to observe Ramadan with unity, devotion, and renewed faith, while awaiting final confirmations from their respective religious authorities.