Sallah | Zikoko!

‘Tis the season for ram meat.

The Eid al-Adha (aka Sallah/Ileya) holiday is this weekend, and we have assembled a panel of Nigerian Muslims to help you plan this holiday. Some of the people we spoke to are regular outsiders, while others like to spend time locked away inside. So, however you like to celebrate, there is some inspiration for you.

These 8 Nigerians have offered their tried-and-tested tips on what to do, watch, and even reflect during this holy holiday.

This image is AI generated

“No movie during the holiday. I will be fully outside” — Taiwo, Ijebu Isiwo, Ogun.

What to Watch: Watch ke? No movie during the holiday. I will be fully outside.
What to Read: There is no time for reading and watching. It is too big to be reading.
What to Listen To: K1 De Ultimate’s full catalogue
What to Eat: Amala and ram meat. It’s the best food for the event, if you ask me. That is what we offer our guests.
What to Do: I’m going to turn into a butcher boy. We are killing rams for three days, starting with a cow on Friday.

“You should definitely read the Quran and reflect” — Monsurah, Surulere, Lagos.

What to Watch: I get that it’s the season of Eid and we’re meant to be holy and stuff, but watching Kdrama won’t be a bad idea, to be honest. You could watch Squid Game if you haven’t seen it. Season 3 is coming out soon, so it’s perfect.
What to Read: You should definitely read the Quran and reflect on the meaning and significance of Eid.
What to Listen To: Podcasts about Eid and how to navigate the new year. Omar Suleiman’s podcast should do the trick.
What to Eat: Eid is a time to be merry, and it’s for Celebration, and it’s the season of meat, so definitely meat and more meat with a sprinkle of Jollof rice and more meat 🌚.
What to Do: Go for Eid prayer, celebrate with family, invite friends over and bond/reminisce over a bowl of meat.

“A Muslim podcast on the significance of Eid won’t be bad” — Mujeeb, Surulere, Lagos.

What to Watch: There’s nothing to watch on Eid Day. Because, right from when you wake up till maybe night, it’s either you’re up to one thing or the other.
What to Read: Maybe some Quranic verses, if you really have the time.
What to Listen To: There are many parties, so most likely the music from the party or something. But a Muslim podcast on the significance of Eid won’t be bad, and it’s highly recommended.
What to Eat: Meat, Meat, and Meat.
What to Do: There will surely be things to do right from when you go for Eid till you get back. You’ll either be coordinating, attending to people, taking pictures.

“When things are quieter, I’ll switch to 38 Letters from Rockefeller to His Son” — Basit, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos.

What to Watch: I hope I will be able to go to the Cinema to watch Ori Rebirth by Muyiwa Ademola. If not, I’ll stay indoor to watch Promised Hearts on Netflix. It’s been on my watchlist for a while, and Eid feels like the perfect time to finally dive into it. I also want to complete the remaining episodes of Unseen on Netflix.
What to Read: Eid morning is a perfect time to start with something spiritual, so I intend to read the Qur’an early in the day. Later in the afternoon, when things are quieter, I’ll switch to 38 Letters from Rockefeller to His Son, a thought-provoking read about success, legacy, and values.
What to Listen To: I have downloaded some Omar Sulaiman lectures on YouTube and planned listen to few of them on that day. I also enjoy I said What I said Podcast, so I will listen to it as well.
What to Eat: Lots of Meat and Ice Cream. The well-fried meat is an integral part of the celebration. I am going to eat as much as I can, but I have to be careful not to overeat, though 😢.
What to Do: I’ll probably spend time scrolling through WhatsApp statuses and Twitter, admiring everyone’s stunning Eid outfits and family photos. It is the day people almost forget about praying Solat because of too many activities, so I will make sure not to forget to pray at the right time. It is customary for me to read books on Eid Day, even if it is just a few pages, so I will continue reading the book I am on. I will also make sure to call my family and friends to greet them for Eid.

This image is AI generated

Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

Subscribe to our newsletters and never miss any of the action

Zikoko Daily Ships Money by Zikoko Her

ALSO READ: 120+ Sallah Wishes For Your Loved Ones During Eid

“I’m not a fan of reading during the festive period” — Adeyinka, Surulere, Lagos.

What to Watch: Your Friends & Neighbours is a good watch for the season. Sallah’s that one time when you’re particularly invested in what your neighbours are up to; doesn’t matter whether they’re Christian or Muslim. You just want to know where the party’s at. Well, that’s sort of the tea in the series, except it comes with a thieving neighbour. It’s available to stream on Apple TV.
What to Read: I’m not a fan of reading during festive periods. I think there are too many activities going on all around that just get you distracted. But if you must read something, I’ll suggest Michael Afenfia’s The Mechanics of Yenagoa. It’s a real page-turner that’ll crack you up in the most unexpected way.
What to Listen To: You definitely want to revisit the classics this time. The Wasiu Ayinde albums from the late ‘90s and early 2000s. Throw in some Haruna Ishola and Ayinla Omowura as well. These songs really do set the mood for a nostalgic festive season.
What to Eat: Everything but meat. Wild right? But here’s the thing: you’ll set yourself up for tooth and jaw aches if you munch on every fried meat that comes your way. The key is storing it up in your freezer and slowly eating your way through your starch. So, more turkey and fish!
What to Do: Go outside. This is the big Sallah. You’re not expected to stay indoors and sulk all day. If you’ve got Muslim neighbours or family celebrating, visit and offer some help. They’ll remember you when it’s time to distribute sallah meat.

“Beyonce. No bad music from Bea” — Mariam, Oba-Oke, Osun.

Watch To Watch: The Life List, Kim’s Convenience. They’re not new, but they’re good. Both on Netflix.
What to Read: Dream Count. It’s what I am reading at the moment.
What to Listen to: Beyonce. No bad music from Bea.
What to Eat: loaded fries from Sooya Bistro. Ate it and loved it
What to Do: Sleep. You sef don try.

“Omo, there is no reading here. Eid is not for reading” — Idris, Yaba, Lagos.

What to Watch: I’m going to the cinema to watch the latest Yoruba movie.
What to Read: Omo, there is no reading here. Eid is not for reading.
What to Listen To: If I were to be honest, there is no particular song to listen to. We are just doing DJ.
What to Eat: 12 pieces of meat per cup of rice.
What to Do: Listen to music and spend time with family. A lot of family gossip to catch up with.

This image is AI generated

“Zobo, juice or tigernut drink to pair with homemade small chops or meat pies” — Aisha, Gbagada, Lagos

What to Watch: Barakah Meets Barakah (Saudi rom-com; sweet, funny, and a light watch with a cultural touch), The Secret of the Nile (for something more dramatic and immersive, it’s Egyptian and gorgeous), Muslim YouTube vloggers who document their Eid mornings, it’s oddly comforting and nostalgic.
What to Read: Season of Crimson Blossoms by Abubakar Adam Ibrahim; intense and tender Nigerian storytelling, Letters to a Young Muslim by Omar Saif Ghobash; reflective and thoughtful, perfect for the Eid spirit, or revisit parts of the Quran or Hadith if you’re in a spiritual mode.
What to Listen To: Yusuf / Cat Stevens – “Peace Train” or Maher Zain – “Ya Nabi Salam Alayka” — feel-good Eid tunes. Afrobeats Nigerian playlists for festive vibes. Eid playlists on Spotify (there are curated mixes that mix tradition with vibe).
What to Eat: Ram Suya (always and forever). Fried rice and jollof, and of course, fried ram meat. Zobo, juice or tigernut drink to pair with homemade small chops or meat pies.
What to Do: Visit family and friends. Eid is for community, connection, and joy. Give out food or money to those in need (zakat al-fitr vibes, even after Ramadan). Dress up! Go out, take nice photos, post a little, joy is meant to be shared. Eid is a reward after a long period of reflection and self-restraint, so I always feel it should be soft, joyful, communal, and filled with love. Whether people are spending it with family, alone, or abroad, it’s a chance to reconnect with joy in a very intentional way.

ALSO READ: Celebrate Eid With These Books by and About Muslims

[ad]
A Sallah break is far from complete if your line-up of fun activities doesn’t include movie time with your loved ones. We know this, so we’ve compiled a list of some cool Islamic movies that’ll teach you one or two things about the deen.

“Crashing Eid”

This 2023 series should be on your radar if you’re up for some romcom moments with your Habibi. Crashing Eid follows the love story of Razan and her British-Pakistani fiancé, who crashes the family’s Eid party. The four-episode series stars Hamza Haq, Summer Shesha, and Yasir Alsaggaf. It’s available to stream on Netflix.

“The Message”

Released in 1976, The Message, also known as Al-Risalah, is a classic for Muslim audiences worldwide. The movie depicts the early years of Islam and the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and dramatises the acceptance and rejections the Prophet faced while trying to spread the gospel of Islam. The Message stars Anthony Quinn, Irene Papas, and Garrick Hagon. It’s available to stream on YouTube.

“Omar”

Omar is a 30-episode historical drama series based on the life of Umar ibn Al-Khattab, one of the closest companions of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and the second Caliph of Islam. The 2012 series dramatises various events during Al-Khattab’s life, from his pre-Islamic days until his assassination. It’s available to stream on YouTube.

“Facing Mecca“

You should grab your tissue for this one because it’s deep like that. Released in 2017, Facing Mecca follows the story of a Syrian pensioner, Fareed, whose wife lost her battle with cancer. Fareed is bent on burying his wife in accordance with Muslim traditions but has to navigate the world of Swiss bureaucracy. It’s available to stream on Netflix.

“Bilal: A New Breed of Hero“

If you’re up for some animation with the kids, this title should be on your binge list for Sallah. Bilal is inspired by the true-life story of Bilal ibn Rabah, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and one of the earliest converts to Islam. The animation follows Bilal’s journey from slavery to freedom and how he rose to a position of prominence in 632 AD. The voice cast features Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Jacob Latimore, and Thomas Ian Nicholas, among others. Bilal is available to stream on Netflix.

[ad]

“Mosul“

This adrenaline-inducing war film takes place in the titular city of Mosul. Released in 2020, the movie follows the story of a police officer, Kawa, who nabs ISIS smugglers but has to battle his way through ISIS fighters. Luckily, an elite Iraqi squad rescues the police officer, but he’s then involved in the Battle of Mosul, which is often referred to as one of the largest and deadliest military operations since the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The movie stars Adam Bessa, Suhail Dabbach, and Hayat Kamille. It’s available to stream on Netflix.

“My Name is Khan“

This one is for the Bollywood lovers. Directed by Karan Johar, My Name is Khan captures the sad reality of Muslim immigrants in post-9/11 America. The movie tells the story of a Muslim man with Asperger’s syndrome who goes on a journey to meet the President of the United States and clear his name after being wrongfully accused of terrorism. Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan plays the titular character. It’s available to stream on Netflix.

Read this next: What’s It Like Marking Sallah Without a Ram? — We Asked These Muslims
Have you run out of inspiration for what to wear this Eid? Is your choice of Ileya outfit basic AF? Is your Nigerian tailor showing you the same styles you’ve worn for five Sallah celebrations? You’re in luck if you answered yes to any of these questions. We asked DALL-E 3 to design Ileya outfits for Muslim men and women, and we can’t help but agree that AI knows ball.

Ileya outfits for men

As a man, don’t listen to people who say you don’t have to do much to make an impression. If you want the compliments to roll in this Eid, start with these DALL-E 3 inspirations:

Short-sleeve agbada

Rock this agbada style on Eid, and everyone will ask for your tailor’s number.

Beaded jalabiya

For most Nigerian Muslims, jalabiya is a basic Ileya outfit that screams low effort. But not if you rock this type with beaded embroidery. This style is heavy on the crown prince energy.

Simple black jalabiya

One good thing about black jalebia is that they’ll withstand all the stains that come your way. Just make sure you pair them with a nice cap that completes your look.

Kimono x tunic combo

Now, this is a look that’ll surely make you stand out at the Eid prayer ground. From the Mama-Africa-themed cap to the tassels and kimono, AI ate.

Metallic silk tunic

This metallic silk outfit screams rich uncle. If you wear it, ensure your pocket is lined with crisp notes because the kids will ask for Sallah money.

Embroidered guinea brocade

The good ol’ guinea brocade doesn’t disappoint. You can ask your tailor to throw in some Ankara fabric for extra pizzazz.

Agbada with cape

This agbada low-key gives off graduation gown vibes, but it’s definitely not your regular style, so yes, to it.

Jalabiya with mini cape

This style works better without the mini cape. AI didn’t eat with this one sha.

Senator x ankara combo

Not a fan of embroidery? You should get your Nigerian tailor to play around with ankara fabric. It’s not a bad look.

Embroidered kaftan

There’s no escaping being called a “Yoruba demon” if you show up looking this good for Ileya. Also, this style looks easy peasy for Nigerian tailors.

Ileya outfits for women

Whether you’re going for rich aunty or oga’s wife, DALL-E 3 says these are the Ileya outfits that should be on your radar.

Ankara abaya

If you don’t have a minimum of ₦25k-₦50k for a ready-made abaya, show your Nigerian tailor this style. It does the job and costs less.

Simple floral gown

This is a nice option to wear after you return from the Eid prayer ground. Just make sure you’re not doing any heavy cooking or lifting.

Kimono abaya with rhinestones

If you wear this, just expect everyone in your neighbourhood to bill you.

Bedazzled abaya

Nothing screams rich aunty more than abaya styles with stone embroidery. Rock this one, and you’ll light up any room you enter.

Full-length gown with headgear

This abstract art-inspired Ileya outfit is perfect for corporate girlies who like to keep it smart and classy even during celebrations. That belt detail killed this look.

Abaya with a cape

Is it me, or does the cape low-key make this look like a bridal outfit? It’s still a real serve if you wear this for Ileya.

Two-piece set

Something about this outfit leans heavily towards “oga wife” and “rich aunty”.

Chiffon abaya with hijab

Rock this if you’re a hijab-wearing sister who wants to switch things up a bit for Ileya.

Two-piece chiffon set

This might not be appropriate for the Eid prayer ground, but it’s something you can rock when you return home.

Jalabiya dress with mini hijab

Just in case you’re in the mood to twin with your habibi.

Enjoyed this piece about Ileya outfits? Read this next: What’s It Like Marking Sallah Without a Ram? — We Asked These Muslims
Eid el-Kabir, also known as Eid al-Adha or Sallah, is one of the most important celebrations in Islam. In English, the Arabic phrase Eid el-Kabir means the Festival of Sacrifice. It commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim and his willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to obey Allah. Just as he was about to offer Ismail for sacrifice, Allah stopped Ibrahim and provided a ram to be slaughtered in his place. This event marks a show of faith and total submission to the will of Allah. Muslims celebrate Eid el-Kabir by slaughtering an animal, typically sheep, goat, or cow, and distributing the meat among family, friends, and those in need.

Whether you’re celebrating or know someone who is, here are some thoughtful prayers and Sallah wishes to show goodwill.

Eid el-Kabir prayers

Nothing beats saying a prayer for your loved ones during a celebration. It’s a great way to show you care for them outside of all the tasty Sallah ram they’ll send your way.
- May your sacrifices be accepted and your home be showered with blessings.
- As you offer your sacrifices, I pray that Allah showers his divine blessings on you and fulfills all your dreams on this Eid al-Adha and always.
- May Allah grant you and your family happiness, good health, and prosperity this Eid al-Adha.
- During Sallah, Allah replaced a ram with Ishmael for the Prophet Ibrahim. May He replace all your problems and sorrows with abundance and happiness. Eid Mubarak.
- May you and your family witness more of this celebration in good health and sound mind.
- May Allah give you the strength to always be willing to sacrifice and submit to His will and command at all times. Happy celebrations.
- May all your good deeds transform into blessings and make it a beautiful Sallah celebration for you and your family.
- May the goodness of Allah that abounds in heaven and earth occupy your home with joy and tranquility on this occasion of Eid al-Adha. I pray Allah purifies your heart, protects and favors you, and grants you a long life to experience more celebrations.
- May Allah accept our Ibadah, ease our affairs, guide our paths, forgive our shortcomings, and grant us all the best in this life and the world to come. May He make our feet steadfast on this path of Al Islam. Eid Mubarak.
- May the sacrifice of Eid el-Kabir strengthen your faith in Allah and light up your world with uncountable blessings. Eid Mubarak.
Thoughtful Eid el-Kabir messages

Eid is only celebrated once a year, so it’s a big deal that your friends and family have witnessed yet another celebration. Never a bad idea to let them know how glad and happy you are to have them around for another year of celebration. These thoughtful Eid messages will do the trick.
- Sending you warm wishes for a blessed Eid. May you find joy in the simple things and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
- The most important message of Eid-al-Kabir is the abolition of individual selfishness. May the teachings of this occasion brighten your life today and always.
- Each Muslim is welcome to embrace the warmth of Allah’s love on this day, so make sure to share the joy and excitement with your family and neighbors. May Allah bless you with ceaseless happiness and goodwill.
- Wishing you a day filled with blessings, good vibes, and all the Sallah meat that your teeth can handle. Cheers to a great celebration.
- Happy Eid. May this Sallah bring you all the joy and deliciousness you deserve. Save some Sallah meat for me, okay?
- Eid-al-Adha is the day of offering sacrifice, rejoicing, enjoying, and showing our commitment to what Allah orders.
- Sending you good vibes on this great day. May Allah fill your heart with happiness and love. I love you.
- Accept the blessings of Allah with all your heart and forget the sorrows that burden your soul. Enjoy the moments you share with your family.
- Barka da Sallah! May this Eid bring you and your family peace, prosperity, and good health.
- Thanks to Allah for bringing us together to share the same path. Now, let’s share the same happiness and pleasure as the holy Eid is almost at the door. Happy celebrations.
Read this next: The Actual Places You Should Hide Your Sallah Meat
Eid-al-Adha is just a few days away, and in case you didn’t get the memo, THIS is the big sallah where you’re expected to show up and show off.

If you’re out there for custom or ready-to-wear abaya styles that’ll have people stopping you with compliments, we suggest picking your inspiration from this list.

Abaya with embroidered floral applique

Go for this abaya style if your goal is simplicity but you still want to make heads turn when you show up. It’s also an easy style that wouldn’t stress your Nigerian tailor too much.

Silk print abaya

If you’re about your rich aunty energy, then a silk print abaya is worth your coins.

Ankara abaya

Haters will call it boubou, but if you ask a Nigerian tailor, this is their version of a well-tailored abaya style using Ankara fabric.

Abaya with kimono

This works best if you want an abaya style with a hip feel to it. Think about it: abaya and kimono? Surely not your regular degular combo.

[ad]

Tiered abaya

Whether double or triple-tiered, this abaya style is a real show stopper. It’s another style that your regular Nigerian tailor can easily recreate after you pick out your preferred fabric.

Chiffon and rhinestone abaya

This is the type of abaya style that lands you in the fashion inspiration column of a Muslim lifestyle magazine. Just make sure you ready your coins for this one because it doesn’t come cheap.

Enjoyed this piece about abaya styles? You should read this next: 9 Things Every Nigerian Muslim Does During Eid
It’ll be raining sallah meat in a couple of days. It’s not the question of whether you’ll steal but where will you stash your spoil after your successful Sallah meat heist? That’s where we come in.

On the roof

Might sound ridiculous, but we’ve seen a couple of people do it and get away with it. The plot twist here is you have to steal the meat when it’s raw. Douse it in salt to preserve it and stash it on the roof. Just make sure you retrieve it before it starts raining.

Your freezer

Might seem like an obvious spot, but what’s that thing they say about hiding in plain sight? For this to work, you have to get creative with the packaging. So wrap the meat in moi-moi leaves.

Your neighbour’s freezer

Put it in a bowl, cover it up and tell your neighbour Mummy asked you to keep it in their freezer. Since you’ve involved Mummy, no one will suspect a thing or try to play a fast one with your meat.

Inside your shoes

Source: The Home Depot

Who’s interested in your shoe rack on Sallah day? Nobody. Just make sure you wrap each piece with foil and in a nylon to lock the aroma in. Once this is done, slide each piece into a shoe on your rack, and no one will suspect a thing.

Storage bowl for foodstuff

Source: Jumia Nigeria

Skip the garri storage bowl because some people might want to enjoy garri and fried meat. But the yam flour or beans containers? No one is coming for them, and your sallah meat will be completely safe.

Inside your wardrobe

Especially your underwear section. Nobody wants to go through anyone’s underwear — clean or otherwise.

Got a story to share? Send a pitch here.
Eid-al-Adah or sallah in Nigeria is only a couple of weeks away and you guessed it, it’s the Muslim festival that involves buying, killing and sharing of ram.

At its core, the festival is about offering a sacrifice to Allah, so it’s important you get things right. Trust us, there’s so much more to buying a ram or cow, and this guide is proof.

Go shopping weeks in advance

If you’re a Muslim planning to celebrate sallah in Nigeria, your ram should already be chilling in your compound or garage by now. If you snooze, your bank account will bleed.

Take a trip up North

Source: Nairaland

It might stress you out, but prices of ram in the North are significantly cheaper. Money-saving tip: Carpool with friends who are also looking to buy rams at affordable prices.

Inquire about the age of the ram

Source: Naijaloaded

Sound weird? Well, according to Islamic teachings, the sacrificial animal has to be at least six-month-old for sheep, one-year-old for rams, and two-year-old for cows.

Go with an experienced hand

Source: Naijaloaded

If ram traders aren’t smiling on regular days, imagine their mood during sallah? It’s best to go with an experienced hand who knows when you’re about to get ripped off.

Avoid animals with deformity

If the price is ridiculously cheap, chances are, something is wrong with the animal. You want to check thoroughly to be sure there are no injuries and the animal isn’t suffering in any way. A deformed animal voids your sacrifice.

Don’t shop online

Shopping online is convenient but you might be setting yourself up big time. It’s best to see what you’re buying in real time.

Don’t take a loan

if you don’t have the resources to buy a ram for sallah, don’t attempt a loan. It’s frowned upon; best to only buy what you can afford, even if it’s fish or turkey.
If there’s anything remarkable about Nigeria’s problems under the Buhari administration, it’s that anything can land at anybody’s doorstep at any time; anybody can collect when they least expect it.

And with insecurity being one of the country’s biggest problems, even the president isn’t too big to have a taste.

What happened?

On July 5th, 2022, a group of terrorists attacked the presidential convoy near Dutsinma in Katsina State. But President Buhari was missing from the party because the convoy was actually transporting an advance team for the president’s imminent trip to his native Daura to celebrate Sallah. The convoy consisted of security guards and protocol/media officers of the presidency.

According to a statement by presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, the terrorists were waiting for the convoy where the attack happened. They opened fire on the convoy and this turned into a gunfight with presidential security personnel. A joint force of soldiers, police officers and agents of the Department of State Services (DSS) contained the attack.

What’s the damage?

Fortunately, nobody died. Two people in the presidential convoy sustained minor injuries and have been treated, while everyone else made it safely to Daura where the president will join them later. The presidency didn’t say if security operatives killed or wounded any of the attackers.

What’s the exposure here?

Despite the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, Buhari has stuck to the claim that it isn’t much of a big deal compared to when he was inaugurated in 2015. In his May 2022 statement marking the end of the Holy month of Ramadan, the president said the battle against terrorists was approaching its end — a worn-out claim he’s used repeatedly since 2015.

It’s custom for President Buhari to spend Sallah in his native Daura. The terrorists definitely knew this, and the fact that they deliberately ambushed his convoy speaks volumes that even the president’s ears shouldn’t miss. But that’s being optimistic.

When he eventually lands in Daura, days from now, for the Sallah celebrations, Buhari should take the time to reflect on his inaccurate claims about how much more secure Nigeria has become under his administration. Because even the people paid to protect his life aren’t safe from the madness.

ALSO READ: How Buhari Has Freed 1,629 “Repentant” Boko Haram Members
Sallah is mostly about dressing peng and killing innocent rams for enjoyment.

Are you getting any share of this Ileya meat? Take this quiz and we’ll tell you:
Ileya, also called Eid-el Kabir or ram Sallah is a great time to connect with family and friends over juicy pieces of fried ram. As with other things, women have a specific experience of Ileya that is often missing from the conversation. In this article, eight Nigerian women talk about celebrating Ileya.

Farida, 26

I’ve spent most of the Eid holidays alone, and I no longer remember what it was like to spend it with family. I like being alone. I miss my family sometimes but I love that I can plan my own day and decide if I want to sleep in or hang out with friends. There is no pressure to do chores or cook or interact with relatives I’m not interested in engaging with.

Fatimah, 30

Ileya, for me, is a day of festivities. Before I got married I used to get nagged about not being interested in supervising the cooking. This will be my third Eid as a married woman. The first one, we spent it with an aunt. Last year, we had guests over. I supervised the caterers and attended to the guests. It was nothing overwhelming.

For this Eid, I contracted a caterer and my domestic assistant did the final shopping today. My husband supervises the slaughtering and cutting of the ram as well as drinks while I supervise cooking and serving. It’s pretty chill.

Nene, 23

My favourite thing about Ileya is the meat but it comes with a lot of work — I am always tired. I can’t just go out to celebrate with my friends because I’m expected to be at home cooking and cleaning.

Hauwa, 23

Ileya is exciting for me as a woman. I especially like the beauty rituals that come with it — henna, making new hair and wearing brand new clothes. In my house, we slaughter two rams and one cow. You can imagine the amount of work that goes into it, but even that is fun.

The entire family gathers in the backyard to share the work. My dad, brother and uncles do the slaughtering, flaying and cutting the meat. My mum, my sister and I cook the food. While we are working, my parents tell us stories and there’s a lot of laughter. Sometimes though, it gets hectic even though we hire extra hands. I remember one year we were so overwhelmed with work during the first day of Ileya that we didn’t even have time to dress up and look good until the next day.

Lamide, 26

When I was younger, Ileya meant work. We couldn’t afford to outsource the cooking so we did ourselves. By the end of the day, we would all be so tired and stressed.

But after I turned 21, things got slightly better. I had a say in how much work I was willing to do. It’s still a lot of cooking and cleaning but it is better than it was. For example, for this Ileya, I am supervising the cooking and washing plates if need be. We have a caterer that comes to help. My favourite thing about Ileya is the gisting with older aunties that come around.

Muslimah, 23

When I was young, Ileya was the time I got to visit my aunty and spend time with her children. As I grew older, Ileya changed. Now, I assume the role of a full-time chef, cooking for the whole family. I spend the entire day in the kitchen from morning till night — I only get to take a break during prayer time.

My favourite thing about Ileya is that every member of my family gets to bond with each other. I am from a polygamous family so Ileya is a special time for us because we get to bond with each other. My step-siblings and their children come to visit and we gist and talk about everything.

I am not spending Ileya with my family this year because I am in school and I am pissed about that because no matter how stressful that day is for me, I still love to celebrate it with my family.

Zee, 24

I always look forward to Eid because it was one of the few times growing up that my dad wouldn’t object to me wearing makeup. I loved the clothes and the henna. I also love how excited I always was helping my mum put on her necklace and doing my eyebrows at the same time.

I absolutely hated the later part of the day when visitors start coming and my sister and I were expected to serve and entertain guests (often older men). In the kitchen, we had to tend to the ever-growing mountains of plates and in the living room, there were so many pointless conversations waiting to happen.

Hadiza, 31

Ileya is a good time for me. A lot of people like the party and pomp of Eid but I try to keep it quiet for me and my daughter because sometimes it’s just two of us. I guess all the stress of Ileya growing up has made me too tired to do anything big. I outsource the cutting and cleaning of the ram when I cook. Other times, I eat out and sleep for the rest of the day.

Subscribe to our HER newsletter for more stories about African women and how they navigate life.

QUIZ: How Will You Spend Sallah?

Will you spend sallah with your family or will you spend it hunting for meat?

Take the quiz to find out.

“No movie during the holiday. I will be fully outside” — Taiwo, Ijebu Isiwo, Ogun.

“You should definitely read the Quran and reflect” — Monsurah, Surulere, Lagos.

“A Muslim podcast on the significance of Eid won’t be bad” — Mujeeb, Surulere, Lagos.

“When things are quieter, I’ll switch to 38 Letters from Rockefeller to His Son” — Basit, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos.

Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

ALSO READ: 120+ Sallah Wishes For Your Loved Ones During Eid

“I’m not a fan of reading during the festive period” — Adeyinka, Surulere, Lagos.

“Beyonce. No bad music from Bea” — Mariam, Oba-Oke, Osun.

“Omo, there is no reading here. Eid is not for reading” — Idris, Yaba, Lagos.

“Zobo, juice or tigernut drink to pair with homemade small chops or meat pies” — Aisha, Gbagada, Lagos

ALSO READ: Celebrate Eid With These Books by and About Muslims

“Crashing Eid”

“The Message”

“Omar”

“Facing Mecca“

“Bilal: A New Breed of Hero“

“Mosul“

“My Name is Khan“

Ileya outfits for men

Short-sleeve agbada

Beaded jalabiya

Simple black jalabiya

Kimono x tunic combo

Metallic silk tunic

Embroidered guinea brocade

Agbada with cape

Jalabiya with mini cape

Senator x ankara combo

Embroidered kaftan

Ileya outfits for women

Ankara abaya

Simple floral gown

Kimono abaya with rhinestones

Bedazzled abaya

Full-length gown with headgear

Abaya with a cape

Two-piece set

Chiffon abaya with hijab

Two-piece chiffon set

Jalabiya dress with mini hijab

Eid el-Kabir prayers

Thoughtful Eid el-Kabir messages

Abaya with embroidered floral applique

Silk print abaya

Ankara abaya

Abaya with kimono

Tiered abaya

Chiffon and rhinestone abaya

What happened?

What’s the damage?

What’s the exposure here?

Farida, 26

Fatimah, 30

Nene, 23

Hauwa, 23

Lamide, 26

Muslimah, 23

Zee, 24

Hadiza, 31

QUIZ: How Will You Spend Sallah?

“When things are quieter, I’ll switch to ***38 Letters from Rockefeller to His Son*” — Basit, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos.**