SOKOTO, Nigeria – Dr. Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has officially declared Sunday, March 30, as the first day of Shawwal 1446 AH, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr in Nigeria.
In a nationwide radio and television broadcast on Saturday, March 29, 2025, the Sultan confirmed the sighting of the new crescent of Shawwal in various parts of the country.
He stated that reports from several Emirs, including those from Borno, Zazzau, Daura, Kwandu, as well as Muslim leaders and organizations across Nigeria, had been received and verified by the National Moon Sighting Committee.
“After due verification and authentication, the new moon of Shawwal was officially recognised, marking the end of Ramadan 1446 AH. In accordance with Islamic law, Muslims are to observe Eid-el-Fitr on Sunday, March 30,” the Sultan announced.
The Sultan urged Muslims across the nation to maintain the lessons of patience, compassion, and devotion learned during Ramadan.
He called on Muslims to continue their prayers for peace in the country and for the well-being of the nation’s leaders.
Additionally, the Sultan encouraged affluent individuals to continue their charitable efforts, particularly assisting the less privileged, as was customary during Ramadan.
He stressed the importance of religious tolerance and unity among Nigerians and prayed for Allah to grant strength to the country’s leaders in their governance.
Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, follows the sacred month of Ramadan, which is observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting and prayer.
Eid-el-Fitr is a significant celebration marking the end of this spiritual observance.
The announcement has set the stage for the celebrations of Eid across Nigeria, as Muslims prepare to gather with family and community to mark the occasion.
