Muslims mark end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr prayers

Hundreds of Muslim worshippers gathered to pray for Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, in Nigeria, on wednesday.

The holiday is celebrated by Muslims around the world following the month-long period of fasting which is scheduled each year according to the lunar calendar. 

Eid al-Fitr takes place the day after the new moon is seen at the end of the month of Ramadan.

Muslims believe that fasting during Ramadan teaches self-discipline, self-control, and empathy for those who are less fortunate.

For Muslims, increased prayer, recitation of the Quran and acts of charity are also important during the month.

Between 80 to 85 million Nigerians identify as Muslim, accounting for about 50 per cent of the population. 

Over 50 per cent of Nigerians identify as Muslim out of a population of around 220 million people.