By Hassan Mariam
In the midst of the sacred month of Ramadan, Muslims in Nigeria are grappling with the harsh realities of economic hardship, which have significantly altered traditional practices and observances. The soaring prices of essential food items have cast a shadow over the faithful’s ability to fully embrace the spiritual significance of the holy month.
Our correspondent, who visited several Local Governments in Lagos State on Sunday, March 24, 2024, conducted interviews with Muslims in their respective communities.
Brother Abdur Razak Olanrewaju from Aboru Alimosho lamented, “Ramadan is compulsory for Muslim faithfuls, but due to the current economic challenges, even those of other faiths have joined us in fasting, as they too struggle to put food on their tables.” Olanrewaju, expressing his dismay at the inflated prices, remarked, “I love to break my fast with fruits, but now I cannot even afford them due to the exorbitant costs. We are truly facing hardships in this country, and only God can intervene to alleviate our suffering.”
Despite the adversity, Olanrewaju highlighted the spirit of charity prevailing among Muslims during Ramadan. He shared, “Alhamdulilah, I have witnessed acts of kindness where raw rice, money, and other essentials are being distributed to the less fortunate, in accordance with the teachings of Allah during this holy month. It is crucial to avoid wastage and extend a helping hand to those in need.”
Echoing Olanrewaju’s sentiments, Imam Hassan Muhammad, from the Oluwakemi Mosque, Oki-Town Iyana-Ipaja, expressed profound concern over the unprecedented challenges facing Muslims. “We have never encountered such dire circumstances in our country before. It is truly disheartening to witness fellow Muslims fasting without adequate sustenance for Sahur and Iftar.” Nevertheless, he urged the community to maintain gratitude for the opportunity to observe Ramadan and to share whatever resources they have with others, believing that such acts would attract blessings from Allah.
Imam Muhammad encouraged Muslims to deepen their spiritual connection with Allah during this trying period, citing the Quranic promise that “after hardship comes ease.” He emphasized the importance of resilience and faith, urging believers to persevere in their devotion and charitable deeds despite the prevailing hardships.
A resident of Jakande Estate, Eti-Osa, Basirat Kareem, a mother of three, shared her experiences navigating Ramadan amidst economic strain. She highlighted the difficulties of maintaining traditional Ramadan meals and purchasing essential items for iftar due to limited financial resources. “The rising prices have made it challenging to afford the ingredients for our traditional dishes,” she lamented. “We have had to opt for simpler meals to make ends meet.”
Ibrahim Ahmed, a young professional footballer from Lekki, offered a contrasting perspective, noting unexpected positives amidst economic adversity. “With fewer opportunities for dining out or indulging in extravagance, I have found myself focusing more on the spiritual essence of Ramadan,” he reflected. “The simplicity enforced by financial constraints has allowed me to prioritize reflection and communal solidarity over material comforts.”
Jumoh Fatima, a community organizer in Amuwo-Odofin, shed light on the collective response within the Muslim community. “Despite economic challenges, there is a remarkable sense of resilience and mutual support,” she remarked. “We have seen initiatives like community iftars and donation drives flourish, demonstrating our ability to come together and support one another during trying times.”
As Nigeria navigates through these economic challenges, the resilience and generosity displayed by its Muslim community during Ramadan serve as a beacon of hope, embodying the spirit of compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity.