The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on Muslims across Nigeria to begin the search for the crescent moon that will signal the end of Ramadan 1447AH and the start of Shawwal.
The appeal was made on behalf of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in a statement signed by Sambo Wali Junaidu, who also serves as Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council.
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According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026—corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH—has been set aside for the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal.
Muslims are encouraged to report any verified sighting of the crescent to their nearest district or village heads, who will, in turn, relay the information to the Sultan for confirmation.
For direct reporting, the Sultanate Council also provided dedicated phone lines: 0803 715 7100, 0806 630 3077, 0803 596 5322, 0803 594 5903, and 0706 714 6900.
Sultan of Sokoto Calls for Ramadan Moon Sighting
The official announcement of the new moon will determine the celebration of Eid al-Fitr across the country.
