- Safiu Kehinde
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the Eid-ll-Fitr celebration.
This reportedly followed the non-sighting of the crescent moon that signals the end of Ramadan.
The announcement was contained in a statement signed by Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto, in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee, Nigeria.
According to the statement, no credible reports were received from across the country confirming the sighting of the Shawwal moon on Wednesday, March 18, which marked the 29th day of Ramadan.
He said Thursday, March 19, 2026, would therefore be the 30th day of Ramadan 1447AH.
The Sultan, who is also the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, approved Friday as the day for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
He congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan and urged continued prayers for national unity and development.