The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni, has officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the day of Eid-el-Fitr.
The announcement follows a formal report from the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, confirming that the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH was not sighted anywhere in the country on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
Ramadan to Complete 30 Days
According to a statement signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wednesday marked the 29th day of Ramadan. Due to the lack of credible moon sighting reports across the federation, Thursday, March 19, 2026, has been designated as the 30th day of the holy month of Ramadan.
Consequently, the Sultan has accepted the committee’s findings and declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the 1st day of Shawwal 1447 AH, signaling the commencement of the Eid celebrations.
Sultan Offers Felicitations and Prayers
In his message to the nation, His Eminence felicitated with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah, wishing them the guidance and blessings of Allah. He specifically urged the faithful to utilize the occasion to pray for the peace, progress, and development of Nigeria.
The statement concluded with the Sultan’s warm wishes for a happy Eid-el-Fitr to all Muslims, adding a prayer: “May Allah (SWT) accept our religious deeds, amin.”
