From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking Eid-El-Fitr.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee, said no report confirming the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal was received from moon sighting committees across the country on Wednesday, March 18, the 29th day of Ramadan.
“Therefore, Thursday, March 19, will be observed as the 30th day of the holy month,” he said.
His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), accepted the report and officially declared Friday as the Eid-El-Fitr celebration.
The Sultan felicitated with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah, praying for Allah’s guidance and blessings.
“I urge the Muslim Ummah to continue praying for peace, progress, and development in our country,” he said.
He also wished all Muslims a happy and peaceful Eid-El-Fitr. “May Allah (SWT) accept our religious deeds, amin,” he added.
