The city of Ibadan, known for its vibrant social life and bustling nightlife, is experiencing a lull in the patronage in most lounges and nightclubs and the reason is clear. With the ongoing observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season, the level of patronage in most lounges across the city has dropped significantly.
So pronounced is this impact that some lounge owners have temporarily shut down their businesses, choosing to reopen only after the fasting periods end. Others, while still operating, are struggling to attract customers, with many seats left empty on nights that would typically be packed with lively crowds.
The two-pronged cause of the lull is the restriction that comes with the spiritual lives of the patrons particularly at a time many of them are observing both Ramadan and Lenten seasons.
Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims, requires faithful to abstain from eating, drinking, and other indulgences from dawn to dusk. Similarly, the Christian Lenten season is a period of fasting, moderation, and spiritual discipline. For many in Ibadan, these sacred periods call for a step back from leisure activities, including nightlife. As a result, lounges—which rely heavily on social gatherings, music, and drinks—have seen a sharp decline in their usual customer base.
The effect is felt not just in the quiet atmosphere but also on the financial health of these businesses. Lounge owners are counting losses, with some barely able to cover operational costs. Staff members who depend on daily tips and service wages are equally affected, as fewer customers translate to fewer earnings.
Despite this slowdown, some lounges have decided to remain open, hoping for the occasional patron who still seeks a night out. Others have taken the more practical route of temporarily closing their doors, awaiting a return to normal business after the fasting period.
Weekdays, particularly Monday to Thursday, have seen the most significant drop, as fasting and religious commitments keep many people away. While Fridays and weekends offer some relief, with a modest increase in visitors after the break of fast, the turnout still remains lower than usual.
In conversations with lounge owners across the city, they shared their experiences, challenges, coping mechanisms and hopes for better days ahead.
When Sunday Tribune visited El Paraiso Restolounge, it was observed that the ongoing Ramadan and Christian fasting period have significantly impacted patronage of its patrons.
During the day, customer turnout can be described as noticeably low. Even in the evenings, when business usually picks up, some customers preferred to stay home or attend religious gatherings rather than visit the lounge. A situation that has affected the earnings of many businesses.
To adapt to the changing customer patterns, the management of El Paraiso Restolounge has introduced a special iftar menu featuring light meals, fresh juices, and traditional foods commonly enjoyed for breaking fast.
Additionally, entertainment schedules have been adjusted—keeping a quieter ambiance during the day and hosting special themed nights after iftar to attract evening visitors.
Despite the challenges, expectations remain high for a gradual recovery after the fasting period. While an immediate surge in patronage is unlikely, business is expected to pick up within a week or two as customers resume their regular social activities.
This period has provided valuable insights into the seasonal shifts in customer behaviour within the hospitality industry. It has reinforced the importance of flexibility, whether through menu adjustments, promotional strategies, or tailored events.
Looking ahead, El Paraiso Restolounge is preparing special post-fasting events to reignite patronage. Plans include themed parties, live music nights, and exclusive discount offers to welcome customers back and create an atmosphere of celebration.
Similarly, the manager of Capitalinn Flag Bar, Olajide Jamal, described the impact the ongoing Ramadan and Christian fasting period has had on their business as significant, noting that it as resulted in a noticeable drop in both patronage and earnings.
According to him, sales have decreased by about 50 percent compared to previous months, with the decline being most apparent during weekends.
Despite this downturn, the lounge has not implemented any specific strategies such as promotions, special menus, or themed events to attract customers during this period.
However, Jamal remains optimistic about a quick recovery after the fasting season, stating that the lounge already has some reservations lined up for April.
When asked if this period has provided any new insights into customer behaviour or the need for seasonal adjustments in the hospitality industry, he explained that this pattern is a seasonal occurrence experienced annually during Ramadan, something they have come to expect.
Also speaking with Sunday Tribune, Mrs Akorede Abioye of Cocktail Corner by Korex, confirmed that fasting periods significantly impact lounge businesses.
She mentioned that the fast has resulted in about 60% drop in patronage, which she described as substantial, adding, however, that Sundays seem to be an exception.
According to her, the strategy of posting meal options for breaking fast suggests an attempt to maintain engagement with customers. This aligns with what other lounge owners have mentioned about adapting to fasting periods.(Nigerian Tribune)
