The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Friday, 20 March 2026, as Eid-el-Fitr.
In a statement issued by the Chairman of the National Moon Sighting Advisory Committee, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Sultan said the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH was not sighted on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, across the country.
“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-al-Fitr,” the chairman noted.
The statement further added that fasting would continue, as Thursday, 19 March 2026, is the 30th day of the month of Ramadan 1447 AH.
The Sultan felicitated the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and wished them Allah’s guidance, blessings, and a successful celebration.
He urged the Muslim Ummah to continue to pray for Nigerian leaders to steer the affairs of the country towards sustainable peace, progress, and development.
The Sultan congratulated Muslims on the occasion and wished them a successful Eid celebration across the country.