His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Muslims across Nigeria to observe the skies for the crescent moon of Shawwal 1447AH on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
The directive comes as part of preparations for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which signals the conclusion of the Ramadan fasting period.
In a related development, authorities in Saudi Arabia have already announced a four-day holiday for workers in the private and non-profit sectors, scheduled to begin at the close of work on the same day, in line with the country’s labour regulations.
According to the Sultan, any confirmed sighting of the moon should be reported to the nearest district or village head for proper communication.
The date, which marks the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been designated for the official moon sighting.
This guidance was contained in a statement issued by Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto, and shared via the council’s public relations platform.
The statement read:
“This is to inform the Muslim Ummah that Wednesday, 18th March, 2026, which is equivalent to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, shall be the day to look for the new moon of Shawwal 1447AH.
Muslims are therefore requested to start looking for the new moon of Sha’aban 1447AH on Wednesday and report its sighting to the nearest District or Village Head for onward communication to His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni, the Sultan of Sokoto.
May Allah (SWT) help us in the discharge of this religious duty, amen.”
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