As the sun sets during the holy month of Ramadan, signalling the time for iftar—the meal to break the day’s fast—mosques across Nigeria traditionally come alive with communal gatherings. Worshippers unite to share in the blessings of the day, fostering a sense of community and spiritual reflection. In this report Sultan Rabiu delves into how the prevailing economic challenges in Nigeria have cast a shadow over these cherished traditions, leading to a noticeable decline in communal iftar practices.
Economic Strains Impacting Iftar Traditions
Nigeria’s economy has been grappling with significant challenges, including high inflation rates, soaring food prices, and widespread unemployment. These economic strains have profoundly affected the ability of individuals and organizations to sponsor communal iftar meals in mosques.
Akinola Jelili, a high ranking member of an Ahmadiyya mosque, shed light on the situation:
A typical Iftar in a Mosque in Nigeria
“The situation of Nigeria’s economy has negatively affected the rate at which iftar is shared in our mosques because the lower-class citizens are increasing due to the poverty of our members,” he said. “This is a result of retrenchment in most private companies and failure of electricity, which has collapsed most small-scale businesses. These issues have turned many people jobless.”
This sentiment reflects a broader national issue. with food inflation on the rise, many worshippers are struggling to provide for their families, let alone contribute to communal iftar initiatives.
Decline in Philanthropic Support
Philanthropists and well-wishers have historically played a pivotal role in funding iftar programs within mosques. However, the current economic downturn has curtailed their capacity to contribute. Jelili noted:
“Yes, there is a decline in the rate at which philanthropists support iftar programs in the mosques because they are also Nigerians. Everyone feels the economic hardship.”
This decline in support has led to a reduction in the scale and frequency of communal iftar events, impacting the sense of unity and shared purpose that these gatherings foster.
Nostalgia for Pre-Pandemic Iftar Gatherings
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many religious and social practices, including communal iftar. While there was hope for a revival post-pandemic, economic hardships have hindered this resurgence. Reflecting on past practices, Jelili shared:
“Yes, I remember before the COVID-19 pandemic, people brought fruits of different kinds to mosques, and everyone loved coming to break their fasting (iftar) and observe Maghrib prayer in the mosques. But the reverse is the case presently.”
Spiritual and Social Significance of Iftar
Beyond quelling hunger, communal iftar holds deep spiritual and social significance. It strengthens bonds among community members, fosters a sense of belonging, and reinforces moral values. The act of sharing food is seen as an embodiment of charity and compassion, virtues highly esteemed in Islam.
Jelili
Jelili emphasized, “The act of iftar, of course, improves moral values in society because if one is well-fed, their character is likely to be positive. According to one Hadith of Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the sense of belonging is there for those who are adequately taken care of and will behave morally in society.”
This perspective aligns with Islamic teachings that highlight the virtues of feeding those who are fasting. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is reported to have said:
Muslim faithful during Prayers in a mosque in Abuja
“Whoever feeds a person breaking his fast will earn the same reward as him, without anything being lessened from the reward of the fasting person.”
Call to Action
In light of the current challenges, there is a pressing need for those who are financially capable to step forward and support communal iftar initiatives. Jelili appealed:
“Those who can afford to support iftar programs in this blessed month should have that spirit of doing so because responsibility lies on them, as we have been enjoined to do so in the Holy Qur’an. The Holy Prophet is reported to have said, ‘Whoever that breaks fast (i.e., iftar) for his fellow brother will have more reward.’ I pray Allah forgives all our shortcomings and accepts all our sacrifices as an act of ibadah in this blessed month and beyond. Aamin.”
As Ramadan progresses, the call for solidarity and charity remains strong. Mosques and religious organizations are striving to uphold the tradition, but financial constraints continue to limit their efforts. Worshippers who once relied on communal iftar meals now struggle to secure their own, highlighting the urgent need for intervention from well-meaning individuals and organizations.
