Sultan of Sokoto directs Nigerian Muslims to begin Shawwal moon sighting on March 18 ahead of Eid-el-Fitr celebrations

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has instructed Muslims across Nigeria to commence the search for the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH from Wednesday, March 18.

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The directive, issued in a statement signed by Alhaji Sambo Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, designates Wednesday, corresponding to Ramadan 29, 1447 AH, as the official day for moon sighting.

The statement urges Muslims who spot the new moon to report the sighting to their nearest District or Village Head, who will communicate the information to the Sultan.

The Sultanate Council also provided direct telephone lines—0803 715 7100, 0806 630 3077, 0803 596 5322, 0803 594 5903, and 0706 714 6900—for credible moon sighting reports.

Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar prayed for divine assistance for Muslims as they fulfil their religious obligations.

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The sighting of the new moon will signal the conclusion of Ramadan 1447 AH and mark the beginning of Shawwal, leading to Eid-el-Fitr celebrations nationwide and among Muslims worldwide.