The Federal Government has declared tomorrow and Friday, March 20, as public holidays to mark Eid-el-Fitr, which signifies the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The declaration was made by Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

In a statement yesterday by Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Magdalene Ajani, the minister extended warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the fasting period.

Tunji-Ojo urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of love, generosity, peace, tolerance and sacrifice, which were emphasised during the holy month of Ramadan.

He also called on Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for the continued peace, unity and prosperity of the country.

While wishing Muslim faithful a joyful Eid-el-Fitr celebration, the minister encouraged citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend acts of kindness to the less privileged in society.

He added that the Federal Government remains committed to fostering national unity and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians.

However, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has directed Muslims across the country to look out for the Shawwal crescent today, a development that will determine the end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

The directive was contained in a statement issued yesterday by the Sultanate Council of Sokoto and signed by the Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of its Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu.

According to the statement, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been set aside for the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal.

“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 advised that any Muslim who sights the crescent should report to the nearest district or village head for onward communication to the Sultan.