The Sultan of Sokoto and President – General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar, has directed Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447 A H, marking the celebration of Eid – el – Fitri, following the non – sighting of the Shawwal crescent across Nigeria.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Waziri Sokoto and Chairman of Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council Sokoto, Professor Sambo Wali Janaidu.
The statement says, the National Moon Sighting Committee did not receive and verified report of the Shawwal crescent sighting from various Committee across the Country on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 corresponding to 29th day of Ramadan 1447 A H.
Consequently, today, Thursday, March 19th 2026, is declared as 30th day of Ramadan. Inline with Islamic tradition which stipulates completing thirty days when the new Moon is not sighted.
The statement explained that Sultan of Sokoto and President – General of National Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar – 111, has approved the recommendation and accordingly proclaimed Friday, March 20 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447 A H, signifying the day of Eid – el – Fitri.
The Sultan extended his felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the World, urging continued prayers for peace, unity, and development, while also praying that ALLAH accepts the acts of worship performed during the holy Month of Ramadan.
SOURCE: NTA NETWORK / X ( formerly Twitter).
