The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially declared Wednesday, April 10th, as the day of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
This decision comes following the report of the National Moon Sighting Committees across Nigeria, which confirmed the absence of the new moon.
In a statement released by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs to the Sultanate Council, Prof. Sambo Junaidu, the council accepted the report and accordingly announced Wednesday, April 10, 2024, as the first day of Shawwal 1445AH.
The Sultan extended his felicitations to the Nigerian Muslim community and wished them Allah’s guidance and blessings. He urged Muslims to continue praying for peace, progress, and development in the country, while also wishing them a joyous Eid al-Fitr celebration.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has announced that the crescent moon of Shawwal has not been sighted, indicating that fasting will continue on Tuesday. Consequently, Saudi authorities have confirmed that Eid al-Fitr will be observed on Wednesday, April 10th, to mark the beginning of the new Islamic month.
In a statement, Saudi Arabia expressed hopes that the remaining moments of Ramadan would be spent in activities pleasing to Allah, with prayers for acceptance of fasting, prayers, and good deeds.