How Muslims are Coping with the Intense Heat While Fasting During Ramadan 2025: A Study in Resilience and Adaptation

By Halimatu sadiya Umar Mass Communication Student, Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Junior (Level 300)

As the holy month of Ramadan 2025 unfolds, Muslims in Nigeria are observing their fasts under some of the most extreme weather conditions the country has experienced in recent years. With temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels, reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in some regions, the combination of prolonged fasting hours and the relentless sun has posed significant challenges. Yet, Nigerian muslims are demonstrating remarkable resilience, innovation, and communal solidarity to navigate these difficulties. This article explores how Nigeria is coping with the intense heat during Ramadan 2025, highlighting the strategies, cultural practices, and community efforts that have emerged in response to this unique challenge.
The Challenge of the Scorching Sun

Nigeria, situated near the equator, is no stranger to extreme heat. However, the dry season of 2025 has brought with it some of the highest temperatures in recent memory, coinciding with the month of Ramadan. This has created a particularly demanding environment for fasting Muslims, who abstain from food and water from dawn to sunset. In northern cities such as Kano, Sokoto, and Maiduguri, where temperatures frequently exceed 40°C (104°F), the heat has become not only uncomfortable but also a serious health concern.

Dehydration, fatigue, and heat-related illnesses have become pressing issues, especially for those who must work or attend school during the day. The extended daylight hours, characteristic of this time of year, further exacerbate the challenge, leaving many Nigerians to endure up to 14 hours without water or sustenance under the blazing sun.
Adapting to the Heat: A Multi-Pronged Approach

Despite these harsh conditions, Nigerian muslims have adopted a variety of strategies to cope with the heat and maintain their fasts. These adaptations span dietary adjustments, changes in daily routines, and the use of traditional and modern solutions to stay hydrated and energized.
1. Pre-Dawn and Sunset Preparations

The pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and the meal to break the fast (iftar) have taken on heightened importance during Ramadan 2025. Nigerians are paying careful attention to the types of foods and beverages consumed during these times to ensure they remain hydrated and nourished throughout the day.

Suhoor: The pre-dawn meal has become a critical opportunity to stock up on fluids and energy-rich foods. Many Nigerians are prioritizing water-rich fruits such as watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers, as well as nutrient-dense meals that include complex carbohydrates like whole grains. Traditional soups and stews, often paired with rice or fufu, are also popular for their ability to provide sustained energy and retain moisture.

Iftar: When breaking the fast, Nigerians are opting for light, hydrating foods that replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Dishes such as pounded yam with vegetable soup, jollof rice, and fruits like pineapple and citrus are commonly consumed. Dates, a traditional staple for iftar, remain a favorite for their high potassium and sugar content, which help restore energy quickly after a long day of fasting.

2. Adjusting Work and Social Schedules

To mitigate the effects of the heat, many businesses, schools, and government institutions have adjusted their schedules. In some regions, work hours have been shortened, and employees are encouraged to work from home where possible. Community leaders have also collaborated with local authorities to ensure that workers can take breaks during the peak heat of the day to avoid exhaustion.

Social activities have similarly shifted to cooler times of the day. Evening gatherings for prayers and communal iftar meals have become more common, fostering a sense of unity and support as people come together to break their fasts and share meals after sunset.
3. Hydration Strategies

Staying hydrated has become a top priority during Ramadan 2025. Nigerians are turning to a variety of beverages to replenish fluids and electrolytes lost during the day. In addition to water, herbal teas, coconut water, and fruit smoothies made from bananas and papayas are popular choices.

Traditional drinks such as Zobo (a hibiscus-based drink) and Kunu (a fermented millet beverage) have also seen a resurgence, particularly in the northern regions. These beverages are not only refreshing but also have natural cooling properties that provide relief from the intense heat.
4. Technological and Cultural Solutions

In urban areas, technology is playing a key role in helping Nigerians cope with the heat. Many households are investing in fans, air conditioning, and cooling systems to create more comfortable living environments. Online platforms and social media have also become valuable resources for sharing tips and advice on fasting during extreme heat.

Culturally, Nigerians are drawing on their deep sense of resilience and faith to navigate the challenges of Ramadan 2025. The communal aspects of fasting, such as group prayers and shared iftar meals, provide emotional and spiritual support, reinforcing the collective determination to persevere.
Community and Faith: The Pillars of Strength

The intense heat of Ramadan 2025 has tested the physical endurance of Nigerians, but it has also highlighted the strength of their communal and spiritual bonds. Fasting during Ramadan is not merely an individual act of devotion; it is a shared experience that brings people together in solidarity and mutual support.

The challenges posed by the heat have only strengthened the resolve of Nigerians to uphold their religious obligations. The sense of purpose and unity that Ramadan fosters has become a source of inspiration, reminding people of their shared humanity and the importance of compassion and perseverance.
Conclusion

As Nigeria continues to endure the scorching heat of Ramadan 2025, the resilience and adaptability of its people remain a testament to their strength and faith. Through innovative strategies, cultural practices, and communal support, Nigerians are navigating the challenges of fasting under extreme conditions with grace and determination. The spirit of Ramadan, rooted in faith, community, and perseverance, shines brightly even under the harshest sun.

This experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of adaptation and solidarity in the face of adversity. As the holy month progresses, Nigerians will undoubtedly continue to draw on their resourcefulness and unwavering commitment to their faith, proving that even the most daunting challenges can be overcome with unity and resilience.