The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad Abubakar, has called on the Muslims in the Country to start looking for the new moon of Shawwal tomorrow, Wednesday, the 29th of Ramadan 1447AH, equivalent to the 18th of March 2026.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council Sokoto, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Sultan urged that if the moon is sighted, the information should be forwarded to the nearest village or district head for onward communication to the Sultanate.
Muslims in Nigeria began fasting for Ramadan this year on 18th February 2026.
The sighting of the Shawwal moon signifies the end of Ramadan and marks the celebration of Eid al-Fitr across the country. According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been set aside for the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal.
“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 Sultan of Sokoto, who is also the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria, traditionally announces the beginning and end of Ramadan after verified moon sightings are reported from across the country. The announcement determines the official date for Eid al-Fitr prayers and celebrations nationwide.