JUST-IN: SULTAN ALIGNS WITH SAUDI, DECLARES FRIDAY EID
By: Abdul-Qoyyum Adeshola, Badmus.
Date: Wednesday, 18th March, 2026 (29th Ramadan, 1447 AH).
THE Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Friday as the day for Eid-ul-Fitr in Nigeria, in line with Saudi Arabia’s earlier announcement.
The decision follows the completion of the moon sighting exercise marking the end of Ramadan 1447AH, in line with Islamic rulings that tie the start of Shawwal to the visibility of the crescent.
Pen Blog Media has earlier reported that Saudi authorities had confirmed Friday as Eid after reports of the crescent sighting, stating that “the sighting of the Shawwal crescent has been established,” thereby signalling the end of the fasting period.
In Nigeria, the Sultan—who also serves as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs—announced the date after receiving and verifying credible reports from across the country.
The Sultanate Council said the decision followed “careful verification and authentication” of moon sighting reports, adding that the process remains consistent with Islamic guidelines.
He urged Muslims to “continue in the spirit of Ramadan by sustaining prayers, charity, and good conduct,” even after the fasting period.
With this, Muslims nationwide are expected to observe Eid prayers on Friday, marking the end of a month dedicated to fasting, devotion, and acts of kindness.
Eid-ul-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan, is observed with congregational prayers, Zakat al-Fitr, and gatherings among families and communities.

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