The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Muslims across Nigeria to begin the search for the crescent moon that will signal the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the commencement of Shawwal.
The directive was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Sultanate Council of Sokoto, and signed by Sambo Wali Junaidu, who also chairs the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs.
According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026—equivalent to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH—has been designated for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent.
Muslims who observe the new moon are advised to promptly report their sightings to their nearest District or Village Heads.
These reports will then be relayed to the Sultanate Council for verification and official confirmation.
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The council also made available dedicated telephone lines through which credible sightings can be communicated directly to the Sultan’s office.
The sighting of the crescent moon marks the conclusion of Ramadan and ushers in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, one of the most significant festivals in Islam.
As is customary, the Sultan—who serves as the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria—will make the official announcement upon confirmation of verified sightings from across the country.
The declaration will determine the date for Eid prayers and celebrations nationwide.