The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’advert Abubakar, has urged Muslims throughout Nigeria to start the seek for the crescent moon that can mark the tip of Ramadan and the start of Shawwal.
The decision was made in a press release issued on Tuesday by the Sultanate Council of Sokoto and signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Spiritual Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu.
In response to the assertion, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, akin to the twenty ninth day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been put aside for the sighting of the brand new moon of Shawwal.
“The Sultan of Sokoto and President-Normal of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’advert Abubakar, CFR, mni, urges Muslims all through the nation to look out for the brand new moon of Shawwal on Wednesday, March 18, 2026,” the assertion learn.
Muslims who sight the crescent are requested to report it to the closest District or Village Head, who will talk the data to the Sultanate Council for affirmation. Devoted telephone traces have additionally been offered for direct reporting: 0803 715 7100, 0806 630 3077, 0803 596 5322, 0803 594 5903, and 0706 714 6900.
The sighting of the Shawwal crescent formally indicators the tip of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr celebrations nationwide. Because the religious chief of Muslims in Nigeria, the Sultan’s verified announcement determines the official date for Eid prayers and festivities throughout the nation.