If you live in Nigeria and haven’t heard that the Federal Government has declared Friday, June 6, and Monday, June 9, 2025, as public holidays for Sallah, then please—check your neighbor’s generator. It might be drowning out national news.
Yes, Eid-ul-Adha is upon us again—the great festival where Nigerians celebrate with meat, merriment, and, of course, mayhem.
But before you dust off your agbada, stock up on ram meat, or begin mentally preparing for unsolicited visits from distant cousins who always forget to leave, let’s get one thing straight: Sallah holiday in Nigeria isn’t just a break—it’s a full-blown, unpredictable cultural rollercoaster.
We’re talking about a season where traffic jams become spiritual journeys, fuel scarcity becomes a national ritual, prices dance like masquerades, and NEPA (or whatever they’re called now) decides to play hide and seek with your power supply.
It’s a time when Nigerians try to find joy while navigating chaos, and somehow, we do it with laughter, loud music, and lots of suya.
So, before you romanticise the long weekend ahead, let’s walk you through 5 things every Nigerian should expect this Sallah—with some hard truths, and the kind of spice that would make your jollof rice jealous.
1. Traffic Jams: The Unofficial Sallah Procession
As families reunite and friends gather, expect the roads to transform into parking lots.
Major highways and city streets will be clogged with vehicles, making a 15-minute journey stretch into hours.
It’s the season where patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a necessity.
2. Power Outages: Celebrating In The Dark
Just as the festivities kick off, the power supply tends to take a holiday of its own.
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Generators will hum in unison, candles will be lit, and the aroma of grilled meat will mix with the scent of kerosene.
It’s a reminder that while the celebration is bright, the lights might not be.
3. Price Hikes: Festive Inflation
From transportation fares to the cost of onions, prices soar during Sallah.
Vendors capitalise on the increased demand, and bargaining becomes an extreme sport. It’s the time when your wallet feels the weight of the celebration more than ever.
4. Overflowing Places Of Worship
Mosques will be filled to the brim as worshippers come together in prayer. Latecomers might find themselves praying on the streets, under the sun, or sharing prayer mats. It’s a testament to the communal spirit, even if it means a bit of discomfort.
The Jollof And Suya Marathon
No Sallah is complete without indulging in Nigeria’s favorite dishes. From spicy jollof rice to sizzling suya, the aroma wafts through neighborhoods, and diets are momentarily forgotten.
It’s a time when taste buds rejoice, and waistlines expand.
Embrace The Chaos And Joy
Sallah in Nigeria is a blend of challenges and cherished traditions. While the power might flicker and prices rise, the essence of togetherness, gratitude, and celebration remains unwavering.
So, as the holidays approach, prepare for the hustle, savor the moments, and remember to keep your sense of humor intact.
