The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr across Nigeria following the non-sighting of the new crescent.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the council’s Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee Nigeria.

According to the statement, no confirmed reports of the crescent moon were received from various committees across the country on Wednesday, March 18, corresponding with the 29th day of Ramadan.

“Therefore, Thursday, March 19, 2026, is the 30th day of Ramadan 1447AH,” the statement noted.

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, subsequently approved the report and declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the day of Eid-el-Fitr.

Felicitating with Muslims nationwide, the Sultan urged the Muslim Ummah to sustain prayers for national peace, unity, and development.

“His Eminence felicitates with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and wishes them Allah’s guidance and blessings. He also urges continued prayers for peace, progress and development of the country,” the statement added.

He further expressed hope that the spiritual gains of Ramadan would endure beyond the fasting period, praying that Allah accepts the faithful’s acts of worship.

In Islam, the conclusion of Ramadan and the commencement of Shawwal are determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, in line with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. Where the moon is not sighted on the 29th day, the fasting period is extended to 30 days before the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs coordinates moon sighting nationwide through a network of committees to ensure a unified announcement for Muslims across the country.

The statement was signed by Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto.