Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar
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.
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