NSCIA Sets Ramadan Moon Sighting Date, Urges Resilience Amid ‘Islamophobic Challenges

Linda Ike

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has announced plans to sight the Ramadan 1447 A.H. crescent after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, potentially starting the holy month on Wednesday, February 18.

Led by Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alh. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the NSCIA congratulated Muslims nationwide.

The National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC), working with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), will verify sightings. If confirmed, February 18 marks 1st Ramadan; otherwise, it begins Thursday, February 19.

Credible reports should go to listed traditional rulers and leaders via www.nscia.com.ng/nmsc/.Backdrop

The statement, signed by Secretary-General Prof. Is-haq Oloyede framed Ramadan amid a trying year of Islamophobia, insecurity, and media bias. It cited Muslims as “double victims” of violence like Boko Haram, banditry, and the killing of 200 Muslims in Kwara State, including narratives painting them as aggressors.

Examples included the 2015 Yunusa-Eze Oruru case sensationalised as forced conversion, versus uncondemned 2026 abduction of Muslim minor Walida Abdullahi by Christian Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi.

t contrasted coverage of Deborah’s 2022 blasphemy murder by a Muslim mob with a Christian mob’s January 2026 killing of Pastor Dio Idon in Kaduna, which drew less religious scrutiny.

NSCIA criticised INEC for scheduling elections during Ramadan, including possible Eidul Fitr overlap, demanding review.

It quoted Qur’anic verses on fasting (Al-Baqarah 2:185) and justice (60:8), urging prayers for Nigeria and steadfast faith: “Inna ma’al ‘usri yusra” , With hardship comes ease

The council prayed for a blessed Ramadan of reflection and protection from evil.