The Nigerian state of Sokoto, in northwestern Nigeria, is preparing for the start of Ramadan, a few weeks after US airstrikes carried out on Christmas Day against targets described as jihadist by the authorities.
According to the Nigerian government, the December 25th airstrikes targeted "two major terrorist enclaves of the Islamic State (ISIS)" located in the Tangaza district, about 75 kilometers from the state capital. The operation marked an unprecedented event for this predominantly Muslim region, which until then had been relatively spared the most intense violence linked to the insurgency and banditry affecting other parts of the country.
Sokoto is home to Sultan Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, considered the supreme spiritual authority of Muslims in Nigeria and responsible for officially announcing the start of Ramadan. The holy month, which lasts between 29 and 30 days, is marked by daily fasting, prayer, and acts of solidarity.
On Friday, the central Abu Hurairah mosque in the state capital hosted a large number of worshippers for the main weekly prayer. Religious leaders focused their sermons on the themes of unity, charity, and spiritual preparation for fasting.
Several residents reported being surprised by the US airstrikes, describing them as a rare event in this part of the country. Some recalled similar incidents that had occurred in the past at the height of the Boko Haram jihadist group's activities, which were primarily active in northeastern Nigeria.
Economic activity and support measures
In the state capital, markets and commercial areas remained bustling over the weekend. Traders continued their business into the evening as preparations for Ramadan intensified.
Meanwhile, religious leaders participated in a one-day workshop organized by local authorities ahead of the month of fasting.
Researchers have established links between some members of the Lakurawa armed group, described as the main jihadist group operating in Sokoto State, and the Islamic State's Sahel Province. However, other analysts dispute the extent or strength of these connections.
The state governor, Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, announced the distribution of bags of corn and financial assistance to 1,000 people before the start of Ramadan. He also promised continued support for families affected by "banditry," a term commonly used to describe armed violence in the region.
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics for 2022, more than 90% of the region's population lives below the poverty line, highlighting the scale of social needs as the holy month approaches.
