Eid Al Fitr will be celebrated in a few days or hours in Nigeria and many muslims are getting ready in their best attires and spirits for the Eid.
So how is the Eid Al Fitr celebrated in typical muslim home across Nigeria?
Starting with the attires for the day. Many muslim Nigerian families have sewn their best attire for the holiday. The ladies sewing the latest style, braiding their nicest hair and the gentlemen ironing out their nicest caftan.
In Islam the Eid is to be celebrated after the sighting of the moon and with Nigeria seeing ours we can’t help but celebrate and the muslims pray for mercy and blessing upon our dear country.
The first thing in the morning, Muslims across the country walk to the nearest mosque or the biggest open field for the morning prayers. They usually walk because it is believed that each step you take to the mosque comes with its blessings, so who wouldn’t want the blessing following the month long fast?
After the Eid prayers, which are usually very crowded, individuals go to their homes and prepare meals for visitors.
Usually, mothers and other females in the home stay back to start the preparations early so that things can be done on time. While the men, and youngsters in the household go for the prayers.
Following their return, the men and everyone help out in whichever way possible. Be it cooking, buying of the beverages, cleaning of the home in anticipation of guest and there certainly will be guests.
After the meals are prepared, it is customs to share food to those around you. Not just your neighbors but to the needy on the streets. Raw and non-perishable food stuff like rice is also a good thing to give to the needy during this time.
After food and drinks are shared to those around you. Families go to amusement parks, eateries, cinemas or places to have fun.
Eid is usually a family affair with many families traveling from all across the country to go home to enjoy the brief holiday with their loved ones.
