* Breaking fast brings cultures together, strengthens unity
In a vibrant blend of culture, history, and spirituality, the Hagia Sophia Photography Exhibition and Iftar Program was held on March 16 in Abuja, drawing a strong turnout of dignitaries, art enthusiasts, and members of the Muslim community, including members of the Türkiye community in Nigeria.
The event, hosted at the Al Noor Mosque Academy, was organised through a collaboration between the Yunus Emre Institute, the Daru’l Erkam Foundation, and the Islamic Culture & Arts Center.
The exhibition opening attracted notable personalities, including the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Nigeria, Amb. Mehmet Poroy; the Coordinator of the Abuja Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Center, Fatih Erkin Mahdum; and a representative of the Daru’l Erkam Foundation, Metin Çelebi, alongside administrators of the Islamic Art & Culture Centre and other distinguished guests.
At the heart of the exhibition was Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most iconic monuments and a symbol of shared human heritage. Through a carefully curated collection of photographs, visitors were taken on a visual journey into the historical and cultural richness of the centuries-old structure, experiencing its architectural grandeur and spiritual legacy from a unique perspective.
Beyond the artistic display, the event was enriched by an iftar gathering held in the sacred atmosphere of Ramadan. Guests broke their fast together, fostering a deep sense of unity, solidarity, and brotherhood, values central to the holy month.
Participants described the evening as both enlightening and unifying, noting that the fusion of art and faith created a memorable experience that resonated across cultural boundaries.
Organisers expressed appreciation to all attendees for their presence and support, emphasising that initiatives like the exhibition and iftar serve as important platforms for cultural exchange and social cohesion, while strengthening ties between communities in Nigeria and Türkiye.
The event ultimately stood as a testament to the power of culture and shared values in bringing people together, even across continents.







