Reporting by Vanguard indicates that the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH. The announcement followed the non-sighting of the crescent moon on Wednesday evening, effectively extending the Ramadan fast to 30 days and setting the stage for nationwide festivities today.
In his traditional message, the Sultan congratulated the Muslim Ummah on their spiritual perseverance. He called for intensified prayers for national peace and unity, urging citizens to carry the lessons of self-discipline and charity beyond the holy month into their daily interactions.
This religious milestone was confirmed by Channels TV, which highlighted the Federal Government’s earlier declaration of Thursday and Friday as public holidays. Daily Post further noted the global alignment, reporting that “Saudi Arabian authorities have announced that Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Friday, March 20, 2026,” following similar lunar observations.
Echotitbits take: The uniform celebration of Eid across Nigeria serves as a momentary unifying factor. Expect a temporary lull in formal business activities today as the country shifts into a celebratory mood, with security agencies on high alert to ensure peaceful gatherings.
Source: Facebook / NTA – https://web.facebook.com/ntanetworknews/posts/sultan-declares-friday-as-eid-el-fitr-day-after-non-sighting-of-shawwal-moon-on-/1245148717790142/?_rdc=1&_rdr#, March 20, 2026
Photo credit: Premium Times
