The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the day of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the Ramadan fast.
This declaration followed the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, which corresponded to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447 AH.
The announcement was conveyed through a statement by the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee. Since no credible reports of the new moon were received from observers across Nigeria, Thursday, March 19, 2026, was designated as the 30th and final day of the Ramadan fast.
Consequently, the first day of Shawwal and the commencement of the Sallah celebrations were moved to Friday.This decision aligns with a similar declaration made by the Saudi Arabian authorities, who also confirmed that the crescent moon was not sighted in the Kingdom on Wednesday.
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In preparation for the festivities, the Federal Government of Nigeria had previously declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, as public holidays to allow the Muslim Ummah and all citizens to celebrate.
In his message to the public, the Sultan congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of the holy month and urged the community to continue praying for national peace, progress, and development.
He emphasized the importance of sustaining the spiritual lessons learned during Ramadan and called for unity across the nation as it faces various socio-economic challenges.
Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the NSCDC, have since mobilized personnel to ensure peaceful gatherings at Eid prayer grounds and public spaces throughout the country.
Source: LIB
