Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has announced that Eid-el-Fitr will be celebrated on April 10.
This follows reports from Saudi Arabia that the Shawwal crescent was not observed, extending the Ramadan fast by a day.
The Federal Government’s declaration of public holidays for today and tomorrow stands firm.
Prof. Salisu Shehu, Deputy Secretary General of NSCIA, stated: “The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, wishes to inform the Nigerian Muslim Ummah that there was no positive report of the sighting of the crescent of Shawwal 1445 AH on Ramadan 29, 1445 AH.
“Consequently, Ramadan fast will continue tomorrow, Tuesday, April 9, 2024 as the 30th day of Ramadan. Therefore, Wednesday, April 10, 2024 is hereby declared as the first day of Shawwal 1445 AH and the day of Eid-el-Fitr.
“The council prays that Almighty Allah accept our fasting and other virtuous acts in Ramadan and grant us all peaceful and blissful eid celebrations.
“Wassalamu alaikum wa-Rahmatullah.”
The NSCIA extends prayers for the acceptance of the fasting and virtuous deeds during Ramadan and for a peaceful and joyous Eid celebration.
In a separate statement, Prof. Sambo Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs to the Sultanate Council, conveyed the Sultan’s greetings and well-wishes to the Muslim Ummah:
“His Eminence, the Sultan, felicitates the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and wishes them Allah’s guidance and blessings.
“The Sultan, while urging the Muslim Ummah to continue to pray for peace, progress, and development of the country, also wishes all Muslims a happy Eid-el-Fitr.”
