**Eid-el-Fitr Celebrations: Sultan Declares Friday as First Day of Shawwal, Urges Nigerians to Offer Prayers** The Sultan of Sokoto, a prominent Islamic leader in Nigeria, has announced that Friday, March 18, will mark the beginning of Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. In a statement, the Sultan declared that no credible reports were received from any part of the country confirming the sighting of the Shawwal crescent on Wednesday. Eid-el-Fitr is a significant Islamic holiday that marks the end of a month of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth for Muslims around the world. It is a time of joy, gratitude, and celebration, as families and friends come together to break their fast and share in the blessings of the holy month. The Sultan's declaration is in line with Islamic traditions, which require the sighting of the Shawwal crescent to confirm the start of the new month. However, in Nigeria, the declaration is often made by the Sultan of Sokoto, who serves as the spiritual leader of the country's Muslim community. In his statement, the Sultan urged Nigerians to offer prayers and perform acts of kindness during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. He also called on Muslims to reflect on the lessons learned during the holy month and to continue to promote peace, unity, and goodwill in the country. The Eid-el-Fitr celebrations are expected to be marked with festivities, feasting, and charity across Nigeria. Many Muslims will gather at mosques and prayer grounds to offer special prayers and perform acts of charity, such as distributing food and clothing to the poor and needy. The Sultan's declaration has brought relief to many Nigerians who were eagerly waiting for the announcement of the Eid-el-Fitr date. With the celebrations now confirmed, families and friends can plan their festivities and make preparations for the special day. In Nigeria, Eid-el-Fitr is a time for joy and celebration, but it is also a time for reflection and gratitude. As Muslims mark the end of the holy month, they are reminded of the importance of living a life of righteousness, compassion, and kindness.