Eid‑el‑Fitr in Nigeria Confirmed for Friday, March 20, 2026

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Eid‑el‑Fitr in Nigeria, following the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. This announcement marks the end of Ramadan 1447 AH, which has been extended to 30 days in accordance with Islamic tradition.

The decision was made by the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee, after receiving no confirmed reports of the new moon from observers across the country on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the 29th day of Ramadan. As a result, Thursday, March 19, 2026, has been declared the final day of fasting.

In his statement, the Sultan extended his felicitations to Muslims in Nigeria, urging them to continue prayers for peace, unity, and national development. He also wished that the acts of worship performed during Ramadan be accepted by Allah. The announcement, signed by Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, encourages all Muslims to prepare for Eid prayers, charitable giving, and family celebrations.

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Across Nigeria, mosques and community centers are expected to hold Eid congregational prayers, while families prepare festive meals and engage in acts of Zakat al-Fitr to support the less privileged. The Federal Government of Nigeria has also confirmed public holidays on Thursday and Friday to allow citizens to participate fully in the celebrations.

Similar determinations are being made globally, with countries such as Turkey and Singapore also observing Eid on March 20, depending on local moon sightings or astronomical calculations. The announcement ensures that Muslims nationwide are united in marking the end of Ramadan and the start of the Eid celebrations.

Eid‑el‑Fitr in Nigeria Confirmed for Friday, March 20, 2026

UK, Nigeria Strengthen Commercial Ties with Multi‑Million Pound Investments

The United Kingdom (UK) and Nigeria are set to deepen commercial and economic ties as Nigerian banks, fintechs, manufacturers, and creative sector companies announce multi‑million pound investments in both countries. These commitments coincide with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s historic State Visit to the UK, aimed at boosting bilateral trade, investment, and job creation.

In the financial sector, Zenith Bank Plc opened a new branch in Manchester, creating up to 30 direct jobs. The bank is also targeting a London Stock Exchange listing by 2027 to enhance its UK market presence and unlock long‑term funding for UK‑Africa trade growth. Fidelity Bank Plc plans to double its UK staff and capital base, while FCMB has chosen the UK as the first international destination for its digital cross-border payments platform.

Nigerian fintech investment in the UK is accelerating rapidly. LemFi plans to invest £100 million over the next five years, designating London as its global headquarters. Moniepoint aims to grow its London team to 100 employees in 2026, and Kuda Bank is expanding its UK headquarters as the base for global operations, with plans to double its footprint this year.

In manufacturing, Twining’s Ovaltine is launching a £24 million facility in Lagos, its first in Africa, which will generate over 100 direct jobs and boost exports across West Africa.

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The creative sector is also seeing major investment. EbonyLife, a leading Nigerian creative brand, is launching EbonyLife Place London, expected to create 40 jobs and showcase African storytelling in one of the world’s leading cultural hubs. In addition, the SCALE Creative Entrepreneur Award Programme, developed by the British Council and supported by the UK Department for Business and Trade, will help young Nigerian and UK creative entrepreneurs expand internationally and foster lasting economic ties.

Addressing an ETIP reception at Kensington Palace ahead of Tinubu’s visit, UK Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said the growing commitments demonstrate how enterprise and innovation can transform economies. UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy added that the strategic partnership reduces barriers to trade, creates jobs, and strengthens cultural and commercial bonds between the two nations.

The UK‑Nigeria partnership is now seen as a key driver for sustainable growth, creating opportunities across financial services, fintech, manufacturing, and creative industries, while reinforcing the UK’s position as a global hub for African business and innovation.

UK, Nigeria Strengthen Commercial Ties with Multi‑Million Pound Investments

Amuwo-Odofin Council Manager Dies in India After Prolonged Illness

The Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area in Lagos State has been thrown into mourning following the death of its Council Manager, Bakare Olakunle Olanrewaju, who passed away in India after a prolonged illness.

Olanrewaju reportedly died after battling a cancer-related illness, for which he had been receiving treatment abroad. His passing brings an end to a long period of health challenges that had kept him away from active administrative duties in recent times.

Although official details surrounding his death remain limited, sources within the council confirmed that the late administrator had been undergoing medical care in India before his demise.

His death has triggered an outpouring of grief from colleagues, associates, and residents, many of whom described him as a dedicated, calm, and efficient public servant who played a vital role in the smooth running of the local government.

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As Council Manager, Olanrewaju was a key figure in the administrative structure of the local government, overseeing critical operations, policy implementation, and grassroots governance. His contributions were widely regarded as instrumental to the development and stability of the council.

Described by many as intelligent, committed, and approachable, his passing marks a significant loss not only to Amuwo-Odofin but also to the wider Lagos State public service.

Tributes have continued to pour in from friends, colleagues, and stakeholders who say his legacy of service and professionalism will not be forgotten.

The family is yet to announce funeral arrangements, as the community continues to mourn the loss of one of its prominent administrators.

Amuwo-Odofin Council Manager Dies in India After Prolonged Illness