Ramadan in Nigeria: Strengthening family ties through shared Iftar meals

ABUJA, Nigeria (MNTV) – Nigerian Muslim families are embracing the holy month not only as a period of spiritual reflection but also as an opportunity to reinforce familial bonds. 

Across the nation, communal iftars–fast breaking meals–are becoming a hallmark of this sacred time, embodying the Islamic emphasis on unity and shared experience.

For many Nigerian Muslims, Ramadan is a festive season, a time for joyous reunions and the strengthening of ties with loved ones. 

Ammar Sulaiman, a resident of Kano, highlights for Africa News the profound significance of gathering with family during this month. 

“Ramadan is a time when we truly feel the importance of family,” Ammar says. “It aligns perfectly with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who encouraged us to nurture relationships and bring families closer through shared meals and acts of kindness.”

This sentiment is echoed by Mujahid Abdurrahman, Imam of community mosque in Abuja, who emphasizes the importance of communal iftars. 

“Communal Iftars fosters a sense of unity and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood. Sharing food and engaging in acts of compassion, such as feeding the needy and supporting one another, are essential aspects of Ramadan”, he says.

The spirit of generosity and communal support is deeply ingrained in Islamic teachings, particularly during Ramadan. The act of feeding the hungry, called Ita’am, is highly encouraged, reflecting the Islamic values of compassion and social responsibility. 

Muslims have a communal way of living, sharing everything, helping each other and participating in each others’ events. These communal meals not only nourish the body but also strengthen the social fabric of the community.