Nigeria to Celebrate Eid-el-Fitr Friday as Sultan Declares End of Ramadan

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the end of this year’s Ramadan fasting across Nigeria.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council Sokoto, Sambo Wali Junaidu. The statement explained that the decision followed the non-sighting of the new crescent moon of Shawwal on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH.

According to the statement, the Sultanate Council, in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee, did not receive any credible reports confirming the sighting of the Shawwal crescent from across the country.

Based on this development, the council declared that Friday, March 20, 2026, which corresponds to the 1st of Shawwal 1447AH, will be observed as Eid-el-Fitr, the day set aside for prayers and celebrations by Muslims.

The Sultan felicitated with the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast, urging them to sustain the virtues of piety, sacrifice, and unity imbibed during the holy month.
He also prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, blessings, and peace in the country.

Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by Muslims worldwide. The celebration is traditionally marked by special prayers, charity, and visits to family and friends.