Sultan Urges Muslims to Look Out for Shawwal Crescent
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Muslims across Nigeria to commence the search for the crescent moon that will signal the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal.
The directive was conveyed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Sultanate Council of Sokoto and signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu.
According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been designated for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent.
“The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs… urges Muslims throughout the country to look out for the new moon of Shawwal on Wednesday, March 18, 2026,” the statement read.
It explained that the sighting of the crescent would mark the conclusion of the month-long Ramadan fast and usher in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
The council urged Muslims who successfully sight the moon to promptly report their observations through the appropriate traditional channels for verification and official announcement.
“Muslims who sight the new moon should report the sighting to the nearest District or Village Head, who will in turn communicate the information… for further announcement,” it stated.
To ensure seamless reporting, the council also released dedicated telephone lines for credible sightings, noting that such reports would be subjected to confirmation before any formal declaration is made.
The statement reaffirmed the Sultan’s traditional role as the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria, noting that the official commencement and conclusion of Ramadan are determined only after verified moon sightings from across the country.
“The announcement by His Eminence determines the official date for Eid al-Fitr prayers and celebrations nationwide,” it added.
As anticipation builds among the Muslim faithful, the council emphasised the importance of unity and adherence to established religious procedures in marking the end of Ramadan
