Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims across the globe, but it holds a special significance for Nigerians. Considering roughly half of the entire country identifies as Muslim, you would think that’s the sole reason why it has so much importance. The truth is that it is much more than that. This is what Ramadan means to Nigerians and why it’s a special period in our country;
- A time for introspection:
Many consider Ramadan a month of peace. Nigerians everywhere take the holy month as a time to reflect, forgive past wrongs, and come to terms with their innermost turmoils. It’s a time when Nigerians, Muslim or not, strengthen their mental, emotional, and spiritual resolve and try to improve their daily dealings, thus creating a generally peaceful environment for everyone.
- A time for empathy
During Ramadan, there is a more general sense of empathy as people consider how they deal with people around them. Nigerians become more understanding because they’ve thoroughly considered that the man or woman sitting beside them might be in the middle of a fast and would do little to upset that. This way, people are more considerate and more respectful to one another.
- A time to give back
It’s extremely common for Muslims to become more charitable during Islam, not just to those who might struggle to find a meal to eat after their fast but to people all around them. Nigerians share the blessing of Ramadan by helping their friends, colleagues, and family members with things they need. By organising local food drives for the hungry and underprivileged and donating supplies to hospitals and orphanages, Nigerians are more inspired during Ramadan to be generous and share what they have with those who have less.
- A time to connect
The evening brings an end to Muslims’ fasting, and with it comes Iftar, a meal that is best shared with people outside the walls of your home. Ramadan creates an avenue for neighbours to get together and prepare feasts for all to enjoy. The sound of laughter can be heard in several communities as they replenish themselves with warm cooking shared with love.
- A time for growth
Ramadan is not only a time for spiritual and mental growth but also an economic one. With all the shopping for donations, feasts, and household groceries, stores across the country see a massive boost in their sales.
Whether you’re a Muslim or not, Ramadan is a respected and nationally celebrated period for Nigerians. It creates pockets of communal care and love that truly brings us together on a level that nothing else can. It is about filling hearts with compassion and extending a helping hand to those in need. It’s a beautiful display of Islamic values woven into the very fabric of Nigerian society.