The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on Muslims across Nigeria to begin the search for the Shawwal crescent, which will signal the end of Ramadan and the commencement of Eid el-Fitr celebrations.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Sultanate Council of Sokoto and signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu.
According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been designated for the sighting of the new moon.
“The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, urges Muslims throughout the country to look out for the new moon of Shawwal on Wednesday, March 18, 2026,” the statement said.
The council advised that any Muslim who sights the crescent should promptly report it through the appropriate traditional channels.
“Muslims who sight the new moon should report the sighting to the nearest District or Village Head, who will in turn communicate the information to His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, for further announcement,” it added.
Dedicated telephone lines have also been announced for reporting credible sightings directly to the Sultan’s office, urging the public to ensure all reports are verified.
The confirmed sighting of the Shawwal moon marks the end of the Ramadan fast and the beginning of Eid el-Fitr celebrations. As is customary, the Sultan will make an official announcement upon verification of moon sightings from different parts of the country, determining the date for Eid prayers nationwide.
In line with the celebration, the Federal Government has declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays for Eid el-Fitr.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government, in a statement by Dr Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary in the ministry.
Extending warm greetings and congratulations to the Muslim faithful on completing Ramadan, the Minister urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice emphasised during the holy month.
He also called on all Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for the nation’s continued peace, unity, and prosperity.
The Minister encouraged citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend acts of kindness to those in need, assuring that the Federal Government remains committed to fostering national unity and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians.
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