Sultan of Sokoto declares Thursday as first day of Shawwal

The President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar has clarified that the new Moon which indicates the end of the Ramadan, was not sighted in the country.

According to a statement on Tuesday in Abuja by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman Sultanate Councils Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, his Committee in collaboration with the National Moon Sighting Committee, did not receive report from various Moon sighting committees across the country, thereby confirming the sighting of the new Moon of Shawwal 1442AH on Tuesday 11, May. This is equivalent to the 29^th day of Ramadan 1442AH.

Prof. Junaid confirmed that with the development, this year’s Ramadan fasting will end today (Wednesday) and the new month, which is equivalent to Eid-el-Fitri, comes up tomorrow (Thursday). 

He said His Eminence, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has accepted the report and accordingly declared Thursday, May 13, 2021 as the first day of Shawal 1442AH, day of Eid-el-Fitri.

RovingNaija checks shows that by this development, Muslim faithful across the country are expected to fast today (Wednesday), and celebrate Eid el-Fitri tomorrow (Thursday) although the Federal Government, through the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola had declared Wednesday and Thursday as official public holidays.

Meanwhile, the Sultan has rejoiced with Muslim Ummah and wished them Allah’s guidance and blessing just as he urged them not to relent in their prayers for peace, progress and development of Nigeria.

He wished all Nigerians a happy Eid-el-Fitri celebration.