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The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar has called on Muslims across Nigeria to start observing the sky during the crescent moon that marks the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
The directive was conveyed in a statement issued by the Sokoto Sultanate Council on Tuesday and signed by the Wazirin of Sokoto and Chairman of the Sambo Religious Advisory Council Wali Junaidu.
Based on this information, Wednesday 18 March 2026—precisely 29 Ramadhan 1447H—has been designated as the day for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon.
“The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs of Nigeria, His Excellency, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, urges Muslims across the country to look forward to the new moon of Shawwal on Wednesday, March 18, 2026,” the statement said.
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The council further advised that anyone who sees the crescent moon should immediately report it through traditional channels for official verification and confirmation.
“Muslims who see the new moon must report the sighting to the nearest sub-district head or village head, who will then convey the information to His Majesty the Sultan of Sokoto for further announcement,” the statement added.
To simplify the reporting process, the council also provides a special telephone line that can be used to convey reliable sightings directly to the Sultan’s office.
The advent of the month of Shawwal marks the end of the month-long fast and welcomes the Eid al-Fitr celebration which is celebrated by Muslims throughout the world. As usual, the Sultan—who also serves as the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria—will officially announce the end of Ramadan after verified reports are received from various regions in the country, thereby setting the date for Eid al-Fitr prayers and celebrations nationwide.
