The Leader of Muslims in Nigeria, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced that the new moon of Shawwal 1447AH was not sighted on Wednesday, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH.
Consequently, the Eid-el-Fitr would be observed on Friday.
In accordance with Islamic injunctions as derived from the Qur’an and Hadith, when the new moon is not sighted on the 29th day of the lunar month, Muslims are required to complete 30 days of fasting before celebrating Eid.
Therefore, Thursday, March 19, 2026, will be observed as the 30th day of Ramadan.
The announcement was conveyed in a statement issued by the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee.
The statement confirmed that no verified reports of the Shawwal crescent were received from moon-sighting committees across the country.
Signed by Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto and Chairnan, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto, dated March 18, 2026, the statement said Abubakar has declared Friday, March 20, 2026 as the 1st of Shawwal 1447AH and the day for the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.
The statement said: His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has accepted the report and accordingly declared Friday, 30th March, 2926 as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH. (Day of Eid-El-Fitri).”
The Sultan felicitated with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of Ramadan and urges continued prayers for peace, unity, and development in the nation.
He also prayed that Allah (SWT) accepts the عبادات (acts of worship) of all المسلمين.
The statement added: “His Eminence, the Sultan felicitates with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and wishes them Allah’s guidance and blessings.
“The Sultan, while urging the Muslim Ummah to continue to pray for peace, progress, and development of the country, also wishes all Muslims a happy El-El-Fitri. May Allah (SWT) accept our religious deeds, Amin.”
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