Muslims in Nigeria will observe the Eid al-Fitr festival on Friday, March 20, 2026, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar, made the declaration on Wednesday, March 19, 2026.
The announcement followed reports that the crescent moon, which signals the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal, was not sighted across the country on Wednesday evening. Consequently, Thursday, March 19, will be the 30th and final day of Ramadan 1447 AH.
The Sultan urged the Muslim faithful to continue praying for peace, stability, and progress in Nigeria. He also extended his congratulations and prayers for the celebration.
Eid al-Fitr is a major Islamic holiday characterized by special prayers, feasting, charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and social gatherings. The exact date is determined by the lunar calendar and local moon sightings, leading to variations in different countries.
