The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced Wednesday, April 10, 2024, for the celebration of Eid-El-Fitr in the country.
The leader of the Muslim Ummah of Nigeria made this declaration while announcing that there was no report of sighting of the new moon of Shawwal anywhere in the country on Monday to mark the end of the ongoing holy month of Ramadan.
By implication, Muslim worshippers in the country are mandated to continue the fasting on Tuesday and celebrate Eid on Wednesday.
The Sultan’s statement reads: “The Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee did not receive any report from various Moon Sighting Committees across the Country confirming the sighting of the New Moon of Shawwal 1445AH, on Monday, 8th April, 2024 which was the 29th day of Ramadan 1444AH. Therefore, Tuesday, 9th April, 2024 is the 30th day of the month of Ramadan 1445AH.
“His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has accepted the report and accordingly declared Wednesday, 10th April, 2024 as the first day of Shawwal 1445AH. (Day of Eid-El-Fitr).
“His Eminence, the Sultan felicitates with 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 he also wishes all Muslims a happy Eid-El-Fitr. May Allah (SWT) accept our religious deeds, amin.”