The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has officially declared Sunday, March 30, 2025, as Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal.
The highly anticipated announcement was made on Saturday night from the Sultan’s palace in Sokoto, following confirmation of the Shawwal crescent moon sighting across multiple locations in Nigeria.
According to the Sultan, Islamic scholars and religious leaders from various states, including Sokoto, Kano, Maiduguri, Jos, Zaria, and Kaduna, observed the new crescent moon, confirming the end of Ramadan 1446. These reports were then verified by the Sultanate Council of Nigeria before the official declaration was made.
In his address, the Sultan urged all Muslims across Nigeria to use this festive period to reflect on the spiritual lessons learned during Ramadan and to extend love, kindness, and charity to the less privileged. He emphasized the importance of unity, peaceful coexistence, and religious tolerance, encouraging Nigerians to embrace these values regardless of their faith or ethnic backgrounds.
He further reminded the Muslim faithful that Eid-ul-Fitr is not just a time of celebration but also an opportunity for renewal of faith, gratitude to Allah, and continued commitment to righteous deeds.
Following this announcement, Nigeria joins other countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, which have also confirmed Sunday, March 30, 2025, as Eid day. Meanwhile, nations like India, Oman, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, where the moon was not sighted, will observe Eid-ul-Fitr on Monday, March 31, 2025.
As preparations for the grand festivities commence, Muslim communities across Nigeria have been advised to adhere to the scheduled Eid prayer times at designated prayer grounds and mosques. Authorities have also called for heightened security measures to ensure a peaceful and joyful celebration.