The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the official date for the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr in Nigeria.
The announcement followed the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon across the country.
“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),” it said.
“The Sultan felicitates 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 prays that Allah (SWT) accepts the عبادات (acts of worship) of all المسلمين.
“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,” the statement said.
The Sultan’s declaration is in line with earlier confirmation by Saudi Arabian authorities, who also announced that the crescent moon was not sighted, fixing Friday for the festival.
Eid-el-Fitr signifies the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, and is marked by prayers, feasting, and celebrations among Muslims worldwide.
Nigerian Newssphere reports that the Nigerian government had earlier declared Thursday and Friday as public holidays to mark the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration.
