It’s Thursday, but we will be looking at Sunday traditions in Nigerian homes. This has always been a special day filled with customs that bring families and communities together. Here are 5 cherished Sunday traditions that many Nigerian homes have upheld through the years:
1. Dressing in Sunday best for church
One of the most iconic Sunday rituals is the morning trip to church. Families don their finest clothes, often new or carefully preserved from special occasions, to attend services. This act of dressing up symbolises respect for the day and the spiritual gathering. The church service itself is a lively affair filled with hymns, prayers and fellowship that nurtures both faith and community spirit.
2. The grand Sunday lunch
After church, the kitchen becomes the heart of the home. Preparing a large, delicious meal is a Sunday must. Dishes such as jollof rice, pounded yam with egusi soup, or akara and moi moi are common favourites. The aroma alone signals that the family is about to share not just food but stories, laughter and sometimes even spirited debates around the dining table.
3. Family time and relaxation
Sunday afternoons are often reserved for winding down. Some family members might enjoy reading or quiet reflection, while children play or take naps to recharge for the week ahead. Watching popular weekend films or drama series on television also became a favourite way to spend this time, creating shared moments of enjoyment.
4. Visiting extended family and neighbours
Hospitality is at the core of Nigerian culture, and Sundays often see visits to relatives or friends. These visits strengthen bonds and offer a chance to catch up with loved ones. It is not unusual for neighbours to drop in unannounced, exchanging pleasantries and sharing refreshments, keeping the spirit of community alive.
5. Preparing for the week ahead
As the day draws to a close, many families begin to prepare for Monday and the busy week to come. This might involve tidying the home, setting out clothes for school or work, or simply gathering to reflect on the week ahead. It is a quiet moment that brings a sense of readiness and peace.