Ileya Celebration in Nigeria: I’m Ready for the Love and the Meat!!!
Eid al-Adha, popularly known as Ileya in Nigeria is just around the corner. And even though I’m not a Muslim, this celebration always brings back sweet memories. It’s one of those seasons in Nigeria where you can feel the excitement before the celebration. Muslims buying rams, cleaning up, stocking their kitchens, and everywhere feels like something good is coming.
And cooking in bulk is also part of the celebration, but preparations begin early. In my neighborhood, there’s already a ram, yes! the chosen one being taken on a walk like a pet. I can’t lie, I always feel a little sorry for it. The poor ram doesn’t know it’s about to become part of a feast that’ll be finished in no time. LOL.
And guess what? I’m honestly very excited about the public holiday. It means I’ll have enough time to spend with my Muslim friends and of course, to enjoy all the amazing food they’ll be sending!
Ileya celebration in Nigeria: A Little Story
Back when I was in school, I always looked forward to this time of year. Things weren’t always easy… sometimes we couldn’t afford to buy meat, especially the “big size meat.” But Ileya period was always different.
On the day of Ileya, the Muslim women in our neighborhood would always call us to bring our plates. It could be ewedu and amala, jollof rice, or white rice with big, ram meat stew. And as students, you can imagine how excited we were. We didn’t have to cook that day because there was more than enough to eat!
When Ileya falls during my holiday period and I’m at home (not in school), the tradition is no different. Our neighbors would knock on the door with big smiles and covered plates in their hands.
“My mummy said I should give you people!” a child would say.
And of course, we would accept it happily and enjoy it with a chilled soft drink. We weren’t celebrating Ileya, but they still made sure we had something to eat and smile about. That kind of love and thoughtfulness is something I’ll never forget. It taught me that you don’t have to belong to a religion to feel the joy of a celebration. Sometimes, all you need is good neighbours and open hearts.
What I’m Expecting This Year
This Friday, I’m already getting ready (yes! plate washed and waiting). I know my Muslim friends and neighbours will be sharing again, and I’m looking forward to tasting whatever they bring. If you’ve got Muslim friends too, now is a good time to check on them, send early wishes or simply get your fridge ready for the goodies coming your way! Ours is already cleaned and waiting.
To All My Muslim Readers
As you prepare to celebrate this beautiful season of faith and sacrifice, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for sharing not just your food, but your kindness. May this Ileya bring you peace, joy, and sweet memories with your loved ones.
Eid Mubarak in advance!
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Nice article, I hope my Muslim friends remember me