Exchange of food during holiday festivities is a gesture that further unites both major religions in Nigeria

Every typical young Nigerian during the holidays has several expectations, especially when you're situated among family members. I grew up in north-central Nigeria, mostly with my parents, except for the period I went some distance for high school. Nonetheless, I reverted most often to my town of residence, and no holiday has passed without food coming to the house.

The young me was the errand boy for the house. I mean, I have older brothers, and I'm about the youngest. My mom was either receiving or giving food during each holiday or festive period. This exchange of food has remained a mysterious tradition, and I am yet to understand its origin and intent. Well, maybe the intent has been in the spirit of trade by barter or show of love, but we unconsciously expect or receive meals during holiday or festive periods.

About two decades ago, a cousin sister of mine and I were always tasked with the distribution of food when the festivities fell on our side. Sometimes, my mom would send us to distant places we could only reach by taking cabs. This, to me, went beyond giving to neighbors or loved ones. The thing I loved about it was that I got tips often from these people about whether I should retire to mom or not.

Eventually, when I became mobile, my mom would pack cooked meals in different batches for different people, reaching very far people. Amazingly, my younger sister joined the tradition even earlier this year since she now manages the family kitchen, and here, she gave me a list of people I should deliver food to. I was glad many of them were my friends, which made the errand less embarrassing.

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Well, even today, we got food delivered to the house, just like on Christmas Day, and we barely had to do any major cooking in the house. As it stands, three families brought meals for us this Christmas, and you know there will be retaliation soon when another festive season arrives. Give or take, I always have meat to munch on and food to eat.

Would I say I am okay with this tradition and may continue with it? I am not against it, but only time will tell if I will continue with that tradition. If you receive food during a festive period, it's only appropriate to reciprocate the gesture, which I believe has been the basis for this long-term tradition.

I believe this tradition also helps to build trust and love among one another, especially between both religions. Like I mentioned earlier, I can't lay hold of how it started, but it's a tradition I grew up to meet and feel obliged to.

I hope we enjoyed the Christmas celebration, had gifts, and sent chickens to neighbors. The Muslim festivals are not far away, and some have marked registers. I wish us all a prosperous New Year ahead.

Thank you for reading.

I would love to have your comments and contributions.