The Sultan of Sokoto has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr in Nigeria.
The announcement followed the non-sighting of the crescent moon that signals the end of Ramadan.
In a statement issued by Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto, in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee of Nigeria, it was confirmed that no credible reports of the Shawwal moon sighting were received across the country on Wednesday, March 18.
According to the statement, Thursday, March 19, 2026, will therefore be observed as the 30th day of Ramadan.
Based on this, the Sultan, who is also the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, approved Friday as the official day for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
He congratulated Muslims across Nigeria on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and urged continued prayers for national unity, peace, and development.
The declaration officially signals the end of the holy month and the beginning of festivities for millions of Muslims nationwide.
