Saudi Arabia Confirms Ramadan Starts Wednesday as Nigerian Muslims Await Crescent Moon
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Saudi Arabia has officially declared that Ramadan 1447 AH will begin on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, following the sighting of the crescent moon. The announcement came after the country’s moon-sighting committee verified reports from trusted witnesses.
The Saudi Supreme Court emphasized that the decision aligns with Islamic teachings, which require fasting to start when the crescent moon is visible. The statement also referenced previous court rulings on lunar observations.
The Islamic lunar calendar determines Ramadan’s start, with each month beginning after the crescent is sighted. Countries may rely on local sightings or astronomical calculations to mark the month.
In Nigeria, Muslims are yet to confirm the crescent moon’s appearance. The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) urged Muslims to search for the new moon on Tuesday evening, 17 February.
The NSCIA clarified that if the crescent is sighted by credible observers, Wednesday will be the first day of Ramadan. If not, Thursday, 19 February 2026, will mark the start of fasting.
Ramadan is observed by fasting from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib), alongside increased prayer, reflection, and charity. The month commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad nearly 1,450 years ago.
Muslims exchange greetings such as “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem” during the month, wishing one another a blessed and spiritually fulfilling period.
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