The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as Eid-el-Fitr following the non-sighting of the Shawwal moon.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto, Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Sultan announced that no confirmed reports were received from moon-sighting committees across the country.
According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, did not record any verified sighting of the new moon of Shawwal.
“Consequently, Thursday, March 19, 2026, will be the 30th day of Ramadan 1447AH,” the statement noted.
The Sultan, having accepted the report of the National Moon Sighting Committee, declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH and the day for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
He congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and prayed for Allah’s guidance and blessings, urging faithful to continue to pray for peace, unity, and development in the country.
The monarch also wished Muslims a joyous Eid-el-Fitr and prayed for the acceptance of their acts of worship..