The Federal Government has declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays to mark Eid-el-Fitr, signalling the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the decision on behalf of the government.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, the minister congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the fasting period.
Tunji-Ojo urged Muslims to uphold the values of love, generosity, peace, tolerance and sacrifice practised during Ramadan.
He also encouraged Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for peace, unity, and sustained progress across the country.
The minister wished Muslim faithful a joyful Eid-el-Fitr celebration and called on citizens to celebrate responsibly while extending kindness to the less privileged.
The statement reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting national unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has instructed Muslims nationwide to look out for the Shawwal crescent today, which will signal the conclusion of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
The decision was contained in a statement issued yesterday by the Sultanate Council of Sokoto, which was signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs.
According to the statement, the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH.
“The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, urges Muslims throughout the country to look out for the new moon of Shawwal on Wednesday,” the statement read.
It further stated that any Muslim who sights the crescent should notify the nearest district or village head for further notification to the Sultan.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.