Islamic leaders and scholars in Yorubaland under the League of Imams and Alfas have officially declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the commencement of the Ramadan fast for Muslims across the South-West.
The decision, announced at a press briefing in Ibadan, Oyo State, comes after careful consideration of astronomical data and internationally recognized resolutions on the unification of the Hijri calendar.
The communiqué announcing the date was read to journalists by the Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, Sheikh AbdulRasaq AbdulAzeez Ishola, at the conclusion of the League’s high-level meeting held on Thursday.
The announcement emphasized adherence to precise calculations and conformity with international standards, reflecting a commitment to global Islamic unity in observing Ramadan.
Sheikh Ishola explained that the determination of the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH was guided by scientific and religious considerations.
“The astronomical conjunction, marking the new moon for Ramadan, will occur at 12:01pm Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, which is 1:01pm in Nigerian time.
“Consequently, Wednesday, February 18, will be observed as the first day of fasting, Insha Allah,” the Mufti said.
The League of Imams and Alfas highlighted that Ramadan will extend for a full 30 days this year.
According to the communiqué, there will be no possibility of crescent sighting on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the 29th day of fasting.
Astronomical data further indicate that the conjunction for Shawwal—the month marking the end of Ramadan—will occur on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 2:23pm Nigerian time, confirming that fasting cannot end prematurely.
“Therefore, Ramadan 2026 shall be observed for a complete 30-day period, and the fast will not conclude at 29 days,” the League affirmed, reiterating the importance of accuracy in religious observance.
The communiqué referenced key international agreements that guided the decision, including resolutions from the Unified Hijri Calendar Committee meeting in Istanbul in 1978.
The League also acknowledged positions adopted by the International Islamic Fiqh Academy and outcomes of global conferences on lunar observation and Hijri calendar unification held in Paris in 2012 and Istanbul in 2016.
These authoritative sources underscore the League’s commitment to aligning Yorubaland’s Ramadan observance with worldwide Islamic practices.
The League’s meeting drew prominent Islamic leaders from across the South-West region.
Attendees included the President General of the League, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello; Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Agbotomokekere; Chief Imam of Ogun State, Sheikh Saadulah Bamgbola; Chief Imam of Osun State, Sheikh Musa Rabiu Animasahun; and Grand Chief Imam of Ondo State, Sheikh AbdulHakeem Yayi Akorede.
Other key figures present were the Lagos State Chairman of the League, Sheikh Seifudeen Ademoritan Olowooribi; Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Sheikh Muhammad Habibullah Adam Abdullah El-Ilory; Secretary General, Sheikh Mustapha Adewale Hossein Doak; Professor Kamil Oloso; Dr Abdul-Barri Adetunji; and several other respected scholars representing the six South-West states.
The gathering reinforced a collective resolve to provide guidance to the Muslim community on observing Ramadan in accordance with Islamic teachings and modern scientific understanding.
The League also stressed that adherence to astronomical calculations and internationally recognized Islamic guidelines is crucial in preventing disputes regarding the commencement and conclusion of Ramadan.
By basing decisions on scientific observation alongside traditional religious scholarship, the League aims to promote unity and harmony among Muslims in Yorubaland during the holy month.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims worldwide.
It is observed from dawn to sunset each day, and fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam.
The accurate determination of the start and end of Ramadan is therefore of significant religious importance.
The League’s announcement seeks to ensure that all Muslims in Yorubaland enter the holy month at the same time, fostering a sense of communal spiritual discipline and solidarity.
The League’s statement also reminded the Muslim community to engage in acts of worship, charity, and self-discipline throughout Ramadan, emphasizing that the month is not only about fasting but also spiritual growth, empathy, and moral reflection.
Leaders encouraged Muslims to prepare adequately for the fast, observe social responsibilities, and support one another, especially the less privileged, during this sacred period.
Ireport247news
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