By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.
According to a statement released by the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, no credible reports of the new moon sighting were received from various committees across the country on Wednesday, March 18, which corresponded to the 29th day of Ramadan.
As a result, Thursday, March 19, will complete the 30 days of Ramadan, with the crescent of Shawwal officially sighted on Friday.
The Sultan, in the declaration, congratulated the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and urged them to continue praying for the nation’s peace, progress, and development.
He also extended his warm wishes for a happy and blessed Eid-el-Fitr celebration, praying that Allah accepts the religious deeds of the faithful.
The statement was signed by Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto.
