More Than Seasoning: How ONGA Brought Taste, Togetherness And Generosity To Ramadan

For years, Onga has been more than just a seasoning brand, it’s been a kitchen staple, a trusted companion, and, most importantly, Mama’s Helping Hand.

From the skilled stirrings of a morning pot of stew to the rich aroma of jollof rice at family gatherings, Onga has stood by mothers, grandmothers, and home cooks across Nigeria, turning every meal into an act of love. But beyond the kitchen, Onga’s mission has always been deeper: to give great taste and aroma, uplift, connect, and share.

In the holy month of Ramadan, one of the most rewarding acts is giving, especially to those who have observed Sawm (fasting from dawn to dusk) but have nothing to break their fast with. That is why, during Ramadan, many philanthropists, organizations, and institutions embark on activities that emphasize giving back.

While some organizations view it as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), for many individuals and communities, it is a heartfelt duty, an opportunity to earn blessings by reaching those in need.

Onga embraced this essence of the season wholeheartedly. For the brand, Ramadan wasn’t just about food—it was about reflection, generosity, and building stronger communal ties.

In homes and mosques, the beauty of Ramadan comes alive in shared moments: hands stretched out in kindness, the aroma of local dishes like jollof rice and Miyan Kuka rising from open fires, and heartfelt prayers whispered just before Iftar. These aren’t just meals. They are customs that unite people.

Onga tapped into this shared experience by ensuring every meal seasoned with Onga carried not just taste but warmth and connection. Being Mama’s Helping Hand means more than making cooking easier—it means showing up where it matters most.

The brand did just that. From sharing meal packs at mosques and markets in the north to creating memorable Iftar moments, Onga ensured that generosity wasn’t just a thought but a tangible experience.

“Ramadan is about giving, and food is one of the most powerful ways to do that. Onga is doing that with one act of generosity,” said Adebola Williams, Marketing Director at Promasidor Nigeria.

To deepen its impact, Onga also launched a heartwarming series titled “Taste of Ramadan with Onga”—a TV and online show that celebrated not just food, but tradition, culture, and the power of community.

Hosted by beloved personalities like Mansurah Isah, Fateemah Usman Muhammad, and Amal Umar, the series highlighted how Northern Nigerian families prepare Iftar and Sahur meals in their own unique ways. From Kosai and Pap to Waina da Taushe and Tuwon Alkama da Miyan Kuka, each episode served as a masterclass in taste and tradition.

But it wasn’t just about the recipes. Each guest shared stories—personal Ramadan memories, the cultural meaning of each meal, and passed-down techniques that reminded us of one thing: food connects generations.

At the heart of each dish was Onga, enhancing the taste and anchoring the experience. A true helping hand in every home.

The brand also educated families on the importance of balanced nutrition during Ramadan—helping them make healthier, more nourishing meals with simple ingredients and the right seasoning.

This act of care ensured that after a long day of fasting, families not only enjoyed flavourful dishes but also stayed energized and strong throughout the season.

“The impact of Onga’s Ramadan outreach goes beyond just numbers,” said Oladapo Oshuntoye, Culinary Category Manager at Promasidor Nigeria.

“It’s in the smiles of those who received a hot meal, the prayers whispered in gratitude, and the knowledge that no one had to go hungry after a long day of fasting.”

From the beginning to the end of Ramadan, Onga was there—on screens, in homes, and within communities. It reached over 200,000 people, created unforgettable Iftar moments, and reminded everyone that the heart of Ramadan is not just fasting but also giving and connecting.

Whether through a meal shared with a stranger, or the simple sprinkle of seasoning that brought dishes to life, Onga proved that food is never just food. It’s love. It’s legacy. It’s what brings people together.

Because sometimes, the most meaningful flavour in a dish isn’t only the spice. It’s the intention behind it.