Sultan Declares March 20, 2026, as Eid-el-Fitr

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar, announced that Friday, March 20, 2026, will be observed as Eid-el-Fitr, the first day of Shawwal 1447AH. This declaration was made following a press statement issued by the Sultan Council Sokoto, which noted that there were no reports from various moon sighting committees across Nigeria confirming the sighting of the new moon on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan.

Consequently, Thursday, March 19, 2026, will be the 30th day of Ramadan. The Sultan, who presides over the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, urged the Muslim community to continue praying for peace and development in the nation.

He expressed hope that the spiritual benefits of Ramadan would extend beyond the fasting period and called for unity among Muslims in Nigeria regarding the moon sighting practices, which are rooted in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. The statement was signed by Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultan Council Sokoto.