Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi may not be having his best season on the pitch, but off it, he’s making all the right moves. The 27-year-old forward showcased his humanitarian spirit by funding an Iftar meal for fasting Muslims in Nottingham, spreading love and unity during the holy month of Ramadan.
Despite limited game time under Nuno Espirito Santo, Awoniyi has kept his trademark smile—and this week, he turned that positive energy into action. Partnering with the Nottingham Forest Community Trust and local charity Himmah, Awoniyi helped organize a solidarity Iftar at Himmah’s Hub in Hyson Green, a space dedicated to providing meals and support to local residents.
The event welcomed 70 attendees from diverse faiths and backgrounds, all coming together to share a meal, break fast, and celebrate the spirit of unity. Awoniyi himself attended the gathering, engaging with residents, including members of the Nigerian community, and enjoying the meal alongside them.
Nottingham Forest’s official X (formerly Twitter) account shared a touching video of Awoniyi bonding with local Muslim faithful, captioned: “Taiwo Awoniyi brought the Nottingham community together at Himmah for a special Iftar. 🌙 He joined those observing Ramadan in breaking their fast, sharing a meal, and celebrating the spirit of unity and generosity. ❤️”
Taiwo Awoniyi brought the Nottingham community together at Himmah for a special Iftar. 🌙
He joined those observing Ramadan in breaking their fast, sharing a meal and celebrating the spirit of unity and generosity. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/M0vS4ryCrR
— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) March 28, 2025Speaking to the club’s media team, Awoniyi reflected on the deeper meaning behind the gesture:
“I’m just sharing love with the community, trying to spread love. This month is important to my Muslim brothers and also coincides with Lent for Christians,” Awoniyi explained. “It’s about giving back, bringing everyone together with love. Whether it’s your time or your resources, it all makes a difference.”
He added, “Growing up, it was always my goal to assist others in any way I could. That’s why I try to develop the next generation of kids through my foundation, and it’s something I hold dearly.”
Awoniyi’s commitment to giving back extends beyond Nottingham. In Nigeria, he runs the Taiwo Awoniyi Foundation, which empowers young people through education and football development.
Forest Eye Wembley Dream After Iftar Bonding
Awoniyi will be hoping to inspire his team on the pitch this weekend as Nottingham Forest square up against Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup quarter-finals. The Premier League rivals clash at the Amex Stadium in what promises to be a thrilling showdown.
While Brighton edged Newcastle 2-1 in a dramatic last-16 victory, Forest had to survive a tense penalty shootout against Ipswich Town. Now, with Wembley just one win away, Awoniyi and his teammates will aim to bring their community spirit to the field and keep their cup dreams alive.
