From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has confirmed the announcement that the 2026 Ramadan fasting will begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
He called on Muslims to embrace the spiritual significance of the holy month and sustain the prevailing peace in the state.
The declaration followed a joint meeting of the Ilorin Emirate Council and the Kwara State Council of Ulama, held at the Emir’s Palace in Ilorin.
According to a statement issued by the Emir’s Press Secretary, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, the decision is in line with the announcement by Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, who is also President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.
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The Emir disclosed that he consulted with the Sultan, during which it was confirmed that the new moon had been sighted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and in Nguru Emirate of Yobe State, signalling the commencement of Ramadan for Muslims.
Speaking shortly after the meeting, Sulu-Gambari congratulated the Muslim Ummah on witnessing another Ramadan and urged the faithful to observe the fast strictly in accordance with the injunctions of Almighty Allah.
“Muslims should observe the fasting in line with the commandment of Almighty Allah (SWT) and imbibe the spirit of extending hands of charity to the less privileged throughout the glorious month,” the Emir stated.
He commended the Kwara State Government and residents for maintaining peace across communities, noting that the calm atmosphere has continued to promote economic and social activities.
The Emir further called for sustained prayers for Kwara State and Nigeria at large. Special prayers were also offered for the repose of the souls of the late Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih, former Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Ulama, and Yusuf Lanre Badmas, former Dean of the Postgraduate School, University of Ilorin.
Earlier, the Imam Imale of Ilorin, Alhaji Abdullahi Abdulhamid, prayed that Allah grants Muslims across the world the immense blessings attached to the Ramadan fast and fulfils His promises to the faithful.
The well-attended meeting drew prominent Islamic scholars and traditional title holders from across the Ilorin Emirate, who reaffirmed their commitment to providing spiritual guidance to the Muslim community throughout the sacred month.
