The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced the beginning of the search for the Shawwal crescent, marking the end of Ramadan 1447AH and the commencement of Eid celebrations.

The Sultan, who is also the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, made the call in a statement issued by the Sultanate Council, Sokoto.

The statement, signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu, announced that Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been set aside for the nationwide moon sighting.

Muslims were urged to look out for the new crescent on that day and report any credible sighting promptly.

According to the statement, those who observe the crescent are to report to their nearest district or village heads, who will relay the information to the Sultan for verification and official declaration.

To ensure seamless coordination, the Sultanate Council provided dedicated telephone lines for direct communication of verified sightings.

The numbers include 0803 715 7100, 0806 630 3077, 0803 596 5322, 0803 594 5903, and 0706 714 6900.

The announcement aligns with the long-standing Islamic tradition where the sighting of the Shawwal crescent determines the conclusion of the Ramadan fast and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr.