Islam was introduced to what is now modern-day Nigeria as early as the 9th century through trans-Saharan trade routes, and it quickly spread throughout the region. Over the centuries, Islam has had a significant impact on Nigerian society, culture, and politics.
Islam was first introduced to what is now modern-day Nigeria through contact with traders from North Africa and the Middle East. The earliest record of Islam in Nigeria dates back to the 9th century when a Muslim trader named Ali ibn Ghanim visited the kingdom of Kanem-Bornu in present-day Chad.
Over time, Islam spread to other parts of Nigeria through trade, intermarriage, and cultural exchanges. The 14th century saw the rise of the Songhai Empire, which was heavily influenced by Islam. The empire was known for its powerful Muslim rulers, such as Sunni Ali Ber and Askia Muhammad.
The arrival of European colonisers in Nigeria in the late 19th century had a significant impact on the spread and development of Islam in the region. Many Muslim scholars and leaders resisted colonialism, and some even launched revolts against the British.
The Sokoto Caliphate, which was established in the early 19th century by the Fulani scholar Usman dan Fodio, was one of the most significant Islamic states in Nigeria. The caliphate was able to resist British colonisation for many years, but it eventually fell to British forces in 1903.
Nigeria gained its independence from Britain in 1960, and Islam continued to be a significant part of Nigerian society and politics. Nigeria is currently the most populous Muslim-majority country in Africa, with over 90 million Muslims.
Islam has had a significant impact on Nigerian politics, with Muslim leaders playing key roles in the country’s history. In 1999, Olusegun Obasanjo became Nigeria’s first democratically elected president after several years of military rule. Obasanjo is a Christian, but his vice president, Atiku Abubakar, is a Muslim.
As of 2021, the estimated population of Muslims in Nigeria is approximately 95 million, making it the country with the largest Muslim population in Africa and the fifth-largest Muslim population in the world.
According to the Pew Research Center’s 2015 report on “The Future of World Religions: Population Growth Projections, 2010-2050”, Nigeria is projected to have the world’s third-largest Muslim population by 2050, behind only Indonesia and Pakistan.
During Ramadhan, Muslims in Nigeria wake up early to eat a meal before the sunrise, known as Suhoor. They then fast throughout the day, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs, until sunset, when they break their fast with a meal called Iftar.
In addition to fasting, Muslims in Nigeria also engage in other spiritual practices during Ramadhan. They read the Quran more frequently, attend extra prayers at the mosque, and engage in acts of charity and kindness to their fellow Muslims.
One unique aspect of Ramadhan in Nigeria is the Taraweeh prayers, which are performed every night during the month. These prayers are recited in a slow, rhythmic manner, and they can last for several hours.
Another important tradition during Ramadhan in Nigeria is the breaking of the fast with family and friends. Muslims often gather together to share meals and exchange gifts, and it is a time for celebration and community.
Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Muslims in Nigeria have continued to observe Ramadhan in accordance with their customs and traditions. Many mosques have implemented safety measures such as social distancing and mask-wearing, and virtual events have been organised to allow Muslims to participate in Ramadhan activities from the safety of their homes.
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