The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Muslims across Nigeria to begin the search for the crescent moon that will mark the end of Ramadan 1447AH and the start of Shawwal.
The announcement was made in a press statement signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu, of the Sultanate Council, Sokoto.
According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been set aside for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent.
Muslims are encouraged to report any confirmed sighting to the nearest District or Village Head, who will then relay the information to the Sultan for official verification.
The statement also provided telephone numbers through which credible moon sightings can be reported directly to the Sultan’s office.
The numbers are: 0803 715 7100,
0806 630 3077,
0803 596 5322, 0803 594 5903 and 0706 714 6900.