3,000 gather in Lagos for Ramadan Fair
More than 3,000 people gathered at Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park, Alausa, Ikeja, for the maiden Ramadan Trade Fair, as corporate organisations and small businesses positioned themselves for increased commercial activity ahead of the holy month.
The fair, which featured over 110 vendors, highlighted the growing economic relevance of the Ramadan season, with firms in food, finance and telecommunications sectors seeking visibility within the Muslim consumer market.
MTN Nigeria led corporate participation, alongside Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, Alt Bank, Marble Capital Limited and Amaanah Finance Company.
Convener of the fair, Abdurrahman Olaleye, noted that the initiative was conceived to simplify Ramadan for Muslim families by creating a structured marketplace where essential goods and services could be accessed in one location.
According to him, the turnout was historic for a maiden edition adding that the success of the maiden edition demonstrated the commercial viability of faith-based lifestyle exhibitions in Lagos.
“What we witnessed is proof that the Muslim community desires organised platforms that address both spiritual and everyday needs. This initiative was born out of a simple idea, to make Ramadan easier while empowering Muslim owned businesses”, he said.
He added that plans are underway for a second edition, with proposals for a larger venue, increased vendor participation and expanded programming.
Project Lead, Sekinat Azeez, said months of planning culminated in a successful debut.
“The energy and participation exceeded expectations. Families came out in large numbers, vendors recorded encouraging sales and our partners showed strong belief in the vision,” she said.
Beyond commercial activities, the event incorporated enlightenment sessions focused on health, family life and entrepreneurship.
Managing Director of My Friend Hospital, Dr Isa Abdul-Mujeeb, delivered a lecture on “Ramadan and Health,” where he educated participants on maintaining physical wellbeing during fasting.
He stressed the importance of proper hydration, balanced nutrition during Suhur and Iftar, and medical supervision for individuals managing chronic conditions.
According to him, “Fasting does not mean neglecting your health. With the right planning and discipline, Ramadan can improve both spiritual and physical wellbeing,” he said.
Relationship expert Dr Bushrah Okeowo Bombata, spoke on “Marital Life Before and After.”
Drawing from her experience counselling couples, she highlighted the need for communication, emotional intelligence and shared spiritual goals within marriages, especially during Ramadan.
She noted that the holy month often exposes underlying tensions in families due to changes in routine and financial pressure.
She urged couples to approach Ramadan with patience and understanding.
Entrepreneur and business coach Mutiat Olagoke urged small business operators to adopt structure, branding and digital visibility strategies to scale beyond seasonal sales.
