The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr across Nigeria.
The announcement came after deliberations by the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, held in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, following the close of Ramadan’s 29th day.
In a statement issued by the Sambo Wali Junaidu, who serves as the Wazirin Sokoto, it was confirmed that no verified reports of the new moon were received from various sighting committees across the country on Wednesday, March 18. With the absence of a confirmed sighting, the Sultanate Council ruled that Thursday, March 19, would be observed as the 30th and final day of Ramadan, thereby placing the commencement of Shawwal on Friday.
The declaration formally ushers in Eid-el-Fitr, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, observed by Muslims worldwide as the culmination of a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
In his message to the Muslim faithful, the Sultan, who also serves as President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, congratulated the Nigerian Ummah on the successful completion of Ramadan. He urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of discipline, charity, and devotion cultivated during the holy month.
He also called on the faithful to continue offering prayers for peace, unity, and progress in the country, stressing the importance of collective responsibility in fostering national development.
The revered monarch concluded his message by wishing Muslims a joyful Eid-el-Fitr celebration and praying that Allah accepts the acts of worship performed throughout Ramadan.
The announcement has since been welcomed with excitement across the country, as preparations intensify for the Eid festivities.
