The Sultan of Sokoto a, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially declared Friday, 20 March 2026, as the day for the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.
The announcement followed the non-sighting of the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH across Nigeria on Wednesday, 18 March 2026.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Chairman of the National Moon Sighting Advisory Committee, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu.
“The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, did not receive any report from various organisations across the country confirming the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH.
“Sultan accepted the report and accordingly declared Friday, 20 March 2026, as the first day of Shawwal, that is, the day of Eid-el-Fitr,” the statement said.
As a result, Muslims across the country are to continue fasting on Thursday, 19 March 2026, which marks the 30th day of Ramadan 1447 AH.
The Sultan extended his felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria, wishing them Allah’s guidance, blessings, and a successful Eid celebration.
He also urged Muslims to continue offering prayers for the nation’s leaders, seeking divine guidance in steering the country towards peace, progress, and sustainable development.
