The Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement issued on Tuesday through the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Magdalene Ajani.
Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan, urging them to uphold the values of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice imbibed during the fasting period.
He also encouraged Nigerians to use the festive season to pray for the peace, unity, and prosperity of the nation.
The Minister further advised citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend kindness to the less privileged, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting national unity and peaceful coexistence.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Muslims across the country to observe the sighting of the Shawwal crescent, which signals the end of Ramadan and the commencement of Eid celebrations.
The directive was conveyed in a statement issued by the Sultanate Council Sokoto, and signed by the Wazirin Sokoto, Sambo Wali Junaidu.
According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026 corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH has been designated for the nationwide moon sighting.
Muslims were urged to look out for the new crescent and promptly report any credible sightings, which would officially determine the date for the Eid al-Fitr celebration.
