Nigerian Heritage

Introduction

Nigeria has a lengthy history of human occupation that dates back to at least 9000 BC. One of
the first sophisticated communities in Nigeria, the Nok culture is said to have flourished in
central Nigeria between 900 BC and 200 AD. The original Nok site was subsequently dated to
around 100 BC to 200 AD. Iron smelting furnaces at Taruga, which date from 600 BC to 200
AD, have been suggested as being located near the Nok region. A unique and fascinating period
in Nigerian history, the Yoruba Kingdom had a significant impact on many facets of life. Due to
archeological history, the nation has additional history involving other sophisticated cultures,
like the Benin Kingdom, that may be traced back to this time. and the formation of Igbo
communities. The Sokoto Caliphate, one of the most well-known states in Nigerian history, was
formed at the beginning of the 19th century. The independence of Nigeria was not obtained until
October 1, 1960, as a result of an independence movement. The state gained full independence
from the British Empire. Independence Day is now annually celebrated on October 1, a day
when we celebrate the history and independence of Nigeria.

What is Nigerian Heritage?

Nigerian heritage refers to the traditions, background, and way of life of the people
who live in Nigeria, a country in West Africa. A people's heritage is a vital component
of their culture, ingrained in fundamental and deeply held ideas, values, practices,
laws, and political and economic structures that guide and influence their day-to-day
behavior. Nigeria is a heterogeneous nation with over 250 unique ethnic groups and a
diverse range of languages, customs, traditions, art forms, and cuisines. The heritage
of the country is the rich tapestry of religious practices, music, dance, literature, and
culture that have been passed down through the ages. In light of the connection
between the concept of heritage and a society's social relationships, Walls (1921)
coined the term "social heritage," defining it as the expectations, knowledge, and
habits that are passed down socially rather than biologically from one generation to
the next via education and social interaction.

Historical Background

Pre-colonial Era

Pre-colonial Nigeria, before the British colonial administration, is characterized by

archaeological discoveries of early civilizations, such as Nok statues and terracotta sculptures.
Early states in Nigeria may have been settled near rainforests and drainage areas, leading to the
rise of urban settlements. The 13th and 14th centuries saw the beginning of societies that would

1
become major empires, such as the Kanem-Borno and Oyo empires. The trans-Saharan trade in
salt and gold was crucial for economic growth, leading to the spread of Islam. This impacted
Nigerian society, leading to more sophisticated and prosperous Northern Kingdoms and the
introduction of Islamic law, significantly influencing legal, economic, and social practices.

Colonial Era

Nigeria was first colonized by Britain in the 19th century as a port of call for Portuguese
commerce. By 1861, British rule had extended from the southern protectorates to the northern
protectorates, with Lagos as a crown colony. A large portion of modern-day Nigeria was ruled
by the British by the early 20th century. Using pre-colonial local political structures and leaders,
the colonial administration was founded on indirect authority. The first government secondary
school was founded in Calabar in 1859, and the Methodist and Aliamisi Missions' founding of
new schools signaled the start of a new era in Nigerian educational progress.

Post-Independence Period

Nigeria became a republic in 1963 after gaining independence in 1960. High degrees of
instability and state failure, including military takeovers, civil wars, and economic instability,
have been experienced by the nation. After 16 years of military dictatorship, a Fourth Republic
was founded in 1999, and Olusegun Obasanjo became its president. Nigeria still has issues with
nation-building, maintaining unity within the country, merging the interests of many ethnic
groups, and enacting political, social, and constitutional changes. Converging pressures and the
Nigerian state's variety have made it a perpetual challenge for succeeding administrations to
establish a robust, dynamic, and stable federal state.

The "National Cultural Policy," introduced by the Nigerian government in 1988, defined culture
as an entire way of life that has been developed by a people to address environmental difficulties.
The nation's cultural legacy was fostered by the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which
was established by the Federal Government in 1999. It amalgamated with the Ministry of
Culture, Tourism, and Information in 2015. Nigeria's numerous ethnic groups, which speak more
than 50 languages and 250 dialects, have an impact on its culture. The Hausa-Fulani, Igbo, and
Yoruba are the biggest. Other minority groups in Nigeria are the Ijaw, the Edo people, and the
Ibibio/Annang/Efik and Ibibio people, all of which are mostly Muslim and Christian. Known as
syncretism, indigenous religious practices are frequently combined with Christian or Muslim
beliefs, and around 21% of the population follows these religions.

Cultural Diversity and Common Ties

Cultural diversity in Nigeria is one of the most prominent features of the country, owing to its
vast territory, large population, and multitude of ethnic groups. There are more than 250 different
ethnic groups in Nigeria, and they all have unique languages, traditions, customs, and cultural
practices. Centuries of migration, intermarrying, commerce, and interactions between different
indigenous peoples and outside influences have resulted in this variety. This has created a rich
tapestry of diversity in the country.
2
HAUSA

The Hausa people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, have a rich cultural heritage that
encompasses language, customs, traditions, and contributions to Nigerian society. Here's a closer
look at some key aspects of Hausa culture:

Language: The Hausa language, known as Hausa or Harshen Hausa, is one of the most widely
spoken languages in West Africa. It serves as a lingua franca in Nigeria and is also spoken in
neighboring countries like Niger, Ghana, and Cameroon. Hausa is a Chadic language belonging
to the Afro-Asiatic language family. It has a rich oral tradition with poetry, proverbs, and
storytelling being important aspects of Hausa literature.

Customs and Traditions: Hausa culture is characterized by a strong emphasis on hospitality,

respect for elders, and communal living. Traditional Hausa society is patriarchal, with distinct
gender roles and family structures. Hausa traditional attire, known as "Babban Riga" for men and
"Barka" for women, is notable for its colorful embroidery and flowing garments. Hausa
weddings, known as "fatihah," are elaborate affairs involving multiple ceremonies, feasting, and
cultural performances.

Religion: The majority of Hausa people are Muslims, and Islam plays a central role in Hausa
culture and daily life. Mosques are significant social and religious centers in Hausa communities,
where people gather for prayers, religious education, and community events. Islamic festivals
such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are celebrated with enthusiasm and involve communal
prayers, feasting, and acts of charity.

Arts and Crafts: Hausa artisans are renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in weaving,
pottery, leatherwork, and metalwork. Traditional Hausa architecture features intricate designs
and decorative elements, seen in the construction of homes, mosques, and palaces. Hausa music,
known as "Hausa Wakar," incorporates drumming, flutes, and traditional instruments like the
talking drum ("dundun") and the "kalangu" (a type of xylophone).

Cuisine: Hausa cuisine is diverse and flavorful, featuring dishes like "Tuwo Shinkafa" (mashed
rice), "Miyan Kuka" (baobab leaf soup), "Suya" (grilled meat skewers), and "Danwake" (bean
dumplings). Meals are often shared communally, emphasizing hospitality and social bonding.

Economic Contributions: The Hausa people are known for their entrepreneurial spirit and
involvement in trade and commerce. Hausa traders, known as "Almajiri" or "Yan Daba," are
found in markets across Nigeria, selling a wide range of goods including textiles, spices, grains,
and crafts. The Hausa are also involved in agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of crops like
millet, sorghum, and maize.

YORUBA

3
The Yoruba people, primarily located in southwestern Nigeria, have a rich cultural heritage that
encompasses language, customs, traditions, and contributions to Nigerian society. Here's an
overview of some key aspects of Yoruba culture:

Language: The Yoruba language, known as Yorùbá, is one of the most widely spoken languages
in Nigeria and West Africa. It belongs to the Niger-Congo language family and has several
dialects. Yoruba language and literature are rich, with a long tradition of oral poetry, proverbs,
and storytelling. It has also influenced other languages in Nigeria and beyond.

Customs and Traditions: Yoruba culture is characterized by a deep sense of pride in their
heritage, a strong emphasis on respect for elders, and vibrant ceremonial practices. Yoruba
traditional attire, such as the "Buba" (top) and "Iro" (wrapper) for women, and "Agbada" for
men, is known for its colorful fabrics and intricate designs. Yoruba weddings, known as
"Igbeyawo," involve traditional rites, feasting, and music.

Religion: The Yoruba people have a rich religious tradition that includes indigenous beliefs, as
well as Christianity and Islam. The indigenous Yoruba religion, known as "Orisha worship,"
centers around the veneration of deities (Orishas) representing various aspects of nature and
human life. Festivals such as the annual Osun-Osogbo festival celebrate these deities with
colorful processions, rituals, and ceremonies.

Arts and Crafts: Yoruba artisans are renowned for their craftsmanship in various art forms,
including sculpture, pottery, weaving, beadwork, and metalwork. Yoruba traditional sculptures,
often depicting gods, ancestors, and mythical figures, are notable for their expressive forms and
symbolic meanings. Yoruba music, dance, and theater, such as "Aroko" and "Gelede," are
important cultural expressions.

Cuisine: Yoruba cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with staples like "Amala" (yam or cassava flour
porridge), "Ewedu" (jute leaf soup), "Efo Riro" (vegetable stew), and "Suya" (grilled meat
skewers). Yoruba cuisine reflects the region's agricultural abundance and culinary creativity,
with dishes often incorporating a variety of spices, herbs, and locally sourced ingredients.

Educational and Political Contributions: The Yoruba people have a long history of
scholarship and intellectual achievement, with renowned scholars, writers, and academics
contributing to Nigerian literature, education, and politics. Yoruba kingdoms and city-states,
such as Ife, Oyo, and Benin, played significant roles in pre-colonial West African politics, trade,
and diplomacy.

IGBO

The Igbo people, primarily located in southeastern Nigeria, have a rich cultural heritage that
encompasses language, customs, traditions, and contributions to Nigerian society. Here's an
overview of some key aspects of Igbo culture:
4
Language: The Igbo language, known as Igbo or Ibo, is one of the major languages spoken in
Nigeria and belongs to the Niger-Congo language family. It has several dialects and is known for
its complex grammatical structure and rich vocabulary. Igbo language and literature have a long
tradition of oral poetry, storytelling, and proverbs, which play a significant role in preserving and
transmitting cultural knowledge.

Customs and Traditions: Igbo culture is characterized by a deep sense of community,

resilience, and innovation. Traditional Igbo society is organized around extended family units,
with strong ties to lineage, kinship, and ancestral worship. Igbo traditional attire, such as the "Isi
Agu" (tiger head) for men and "George" wrapper for women, is known for its colorful fabrics
and intricate designs. Igbo traditional weddings, known as "Igba Nkwu" or "Igba Iyawo,"
involve elaborate ceremonies, cultural rites, and celebrations.

Religion: The Igbo people have a rich religious tradition that includes indigenous beliefs,
Christianity, and, to a lesser extent, Islam. Indigenous Igbo religion revolves around the worship
of a pantheon of deities (Alusi) representing natural forces, ancestors, and spirits. Igbo festivals,
such as the "Iri Ji Ohu" (New Yam Festival), celebrate the harvest season with feasting, music,
and cultural performances.

Arts and Crafts: Igbo artisans are renowned for their craftsmanship in various art forms,
including sculpture, pottery, weaving, beadwork, and metalwork. Igbo traditional masks, often
used in masquerades and rituals, are notable for their intricate designs and symbolic meanings.
Igbo music, dance, and storytelling traditions, such as "Ogene" music and "Mmanwu"
masquerades, are important cultural expressions.

Cuisine: Igbo cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with staples like "Ofe Onugbu" (bitter leaf soup),
"Ofe Owerri" (vegetable soup), "Nkwobi" (spicy cow foot), and "Abacha" (African salad). Igbo
cuisine reflects the region's agricultural abundance and culinary creativity, with dishes often
incorporating a variety of spices, herbs, and locally sourced ingredients.

Educational and Entrepreneurial Contributions: The Igbo people have a long history of
educational achievement, entrepreneurship, and intellectual pursuits. Igbo individuals and
communities have made significant contributions to Nigerian literature, education, business, and
politics, playing prominent roles in various sectors of Nigerian society

The major characteristics/features of Nigerian heritage

1. The element of shared migration or origin customs among the various ethnic groupings.
Nearly every ethnic group in Nigeria has a story of origin that is somewhat similar to another.
5
Most ethnic groups' oral histories attest to the fact that their ancestors shared a common
progenitor. They spoke of widespread migration across great distances and the blending of
individuals of different ethnicities throughout the nation known as Nigeria. For instance, Igbo
people think they originated in the Middle East, which is around Israel, but Yoruba people think
they originated in Egypt. In a similar vein, there exists a degree of affinity or proximity between
other groups and themselves in terms of origin. For example, the Nupe claim a tight origin story
with the Igala, the Edo claim a tie to the Yoruba, and the Itsekir claim a relationship with the
Edo. The customs of origin relate to various ethnic or cultural groupings. Like other communities
in Nigeria, the Alago have close ties to the Ldomma.

2. From a linguistic perspective, there is evidence of commonalities across the various cultural
groups in Nigeria, as the majority of Nigerian language groupings have a common origin. The
majority of Nigerian languages descended from the proto-language family of Niger-Kordofanian,
according to historical linguistic evidence. The main languages of Nigeria, which include
Yoruba, Igbo, Idoma, Igala, and Edo, are members of the Kwasub family, which is a branch of
the Niger-Kordofanian Proto-language, according to American linguist Joseph Greenberg. This
is a blatant sign that the majority of the language groups in Nigeria have some historical baggage
with one another. It's possible that these language groupings were once a single language group
before splitting apart and giving rise to the diversity of languages in the distant past. The
similarities in some Nigerian languages and dialects provide clear evidence of a common
heritage. Certain dialects and languages spoken in Nigeria have similarities that unmistakably
show a shared ancestry.

3. The political system in various regions of Nigeria is modeled after the monarchical system of
law and governance. Additionally, this cut through the cast as well as many geographic regions
to the north, west, and south. The Obaship of the Olu, for example, as a major authority among
the Itsekiri in Delta State, the Agbor Kingdon, Bonny, Kalabari, and Nembe kingdoms in the
southern region of Nigeria, is widely recognized, as is the Obaship of the Yoruba. Comparably,
the Emirate Kingdom was established as a centralized government in the northern region of
Nigeria. Furthermore, a centralized political power or kingdom was institutionalized by the
Lyala, Nupe, and Jukun. The majority of Nigeria's ethnic groupings have a long political
tradition of openly appropriating titles and other items from their neighbors. For instance, the Tiv
borrowed from Jukun, the Urhobo and Itsekirib from Benin, and the Idonma borrowed their
chieftaincy titles from Igala and Jukun. They have, nonetheless, modified these acquired
traditions and rituals to suit their own distinct cultural identities.

4. Furthermore, all of Nigeria's ethnic groups adhere to the same religion or creed. During the
pre-colonial era, political and religious forces were combined in almost all governmental
institutions and authorities. This stems from the widespread perception that these political
organizations and authorities are empowered by supreme beings or otherworldly forces. The
governmental powers are deemed to be representatives of the Supreme Being, as suggested by
the historical antecedents of the various ethnic groups. The Oba of Benin, the Obi of Onitsha, the
Alafin of Oyo, the Mai Kanenm Bornu, and the Athe Akuof Wukari, to name a few, are revered
as gods, ancestors, or representatives of the divine. This clarifies the rationale for all the efforts
undertaken to safeguard and maintain a university or political institution. Similar to this, each
6
ethnic group has a distinct mythology and cosmology of their own. The belief in a Supreme
Being who created and maintained the cosmos is shared by all of them. For instance, Olodumare
is regarded by the Yoruba as the creator of the cosmos; this is also true for other ethnic groups.
The creator is known by several names: the Tiv call him Aahoodoo; the Ijaw call him
TamaraunTamuno; the Hausa call him Ubangiji; the Nupe call him Soko; the Igbo call him
Chukwu; the Edo call him Osanobua; and the Ibibio call him Abasi. God exists, according to
every ethnic group in Nigeria.

5. Another significant cultural legacy of the Nigerian people is the widespread belief in the
existence of supernatural entities in the form of ancestors, or "ancestresses." The general
consensus is that this intricate spiritualized realm includes the ancestors and ancestresses. The
kinship and descent systems determine the ancestors' places; in order to qualify as an ancestor, a
person had to have led a moral life and produced offspring, such as children and grandchildren. It
is believed that the ancestor is a type of guardian ghost. Ancestor worship is a belief or practice
that recognizes the structural relevance of the deceased or previous generations to the living.
Worshiping one's ancestors is a powerful means of maintaining traditional Nigerian society's
cohesiveness and togetherness. It is said that ancestors can bestow blessings or curses on their
offspring and have an impact on their lives.

Themes and Concepts in Nigeria's Culture

Symbols: In human culture, symbols are concepts conveyed through symbolic forms. It could
also be a place of worship or any other kind of supernatural phenomenon or experience. Symbols
represent one's beliefs. Something that meaningfully depicts another thing is called a symbol. An
image of a lion, for instance, is symbolic of power. Human culture relies heavily on symbols
because they make abstract ideas easier to understand. The Supreme Being, for instance,
embodies solidarity and justice. Symbols help us make sense of reality and also help ease
communication. For instance, wearing black is a statement of sorrow or loss in many cultures.
Conversely, dressing in white may represent festivity, joy, purity, and serenity. Additionally,
many ethnic groups, such as the Yoruba, believe that chopping an Iroko tree symbolizes the
death of an Oba (king). This act is considered a powerful form of communication.

Cultural values: Cultural values are ideas shared by people in a society about what is good or
bad, wrong or right, desirable or undesirable. Values are generally abstract ideas, and they shape
the ideals and goals of a society. Values are typically abstract concepts that influence a society's
aspirations and values. Values serve as the foundation for an individual's behavior and conduct
and are typically altered emotionally. Nigerians share many values, such as chastity, courage,
honesty, cleanliness, hard labor, hospitality, and respect for elders. Values differ from culture to
culture. Nonetheless, the majority of Nigerian communities share a set of values that encourage
moral behavior among their members and increase the effectiveness of societal advancement.
For example, in certain societies, virginity and cleanliness are more important than deference to
elders. Some societies value industry, hard work, equality, or veneration for the Supreme Being.
In Nigerian society, values are transmitted from generation to generation through symbols.
Stories from mythology, folklore, art, entertainment, and music may all convey values.

7
Norms: Generally speaking, "Norms" refer to the accepted norms of conduct or beliefs within a
community or organization. These norms can cover a broad spectrum of conduct, from well-
mannered and polite behavior to more deeply embedded cultural or societal expectations.
Diverse cultures, groups, and social circumstances might have quite diverse norms. They act as
rules for proper behavior and support the upkeep of harmony and order in a community or
organization. Norms are guidelines for appropriate behavior in specific situations or contexts.
There are codes of conduct in Nigerian society that specify how members of the public are
expected to act in particular social settings. Norms are guidelines or standards for behavior. The
boundaries of social behavior are set by expectations and norms of behavior. Stated differently, it
refers to any accepted principle that outlines the appropriate course of action for people in
specific situations. Norms establish an individual's rights, responsibilities, and duties in his
interactions with other members of the community. There are two categories of norms: mores
and folklore.

Mores: Mores are standards that individuals in a certain community hold to be essential and are
ingrained in what they view as morality. Give a clearer definition of what is right and wrong.
The punishment for breaking it is quite harsh. Rituals are performed to establish what is good or
incorrect; these rituals may include animal sacrifice, candid confession, rejection, or even death.
Mores are typically customary conventions or norms found in Nigerian societies. Examples of
these include the ban on women climbing palm trees, the restriction on what foods or animals
clan members may eat, the prohibition against close relatives like brothers and sisters engaging
in sexual relations, the eating of new crops (yam and millet) prior to harvest celebrations, and the
prohibition against people visiting the farm after a death. Certain civilizations view marriage to a
young girl the man's daughter's age as more serious crimes than simple homicide or attempted
suicide. You'll either have to pay a certain fine or face social rejection.

Folkways: Folkways are social standards that outline expected behavior in a community. It is
focused on socially acceptable but not very important norms of behavior. These are customs
pertaining to cuisine, lifestyle, and manners of dressing in Nigerian society. The group's welfare
is seen to depend heavily on these rules. Nevertheless, the specifics of these folkways'
transgression. Although there is no severe punishment for it, the offender and folkways may face
mockery or rumors.

Enculturation: The process of learning one's culture as a child is referred to by anthropologists

as enculturation. Stated differently, it refers to the intentional indoctrination of the children in
their surroundings. Enculturation is the process of fully assimilating into your culture. The
acquisition of table manners, environmental adaptation, and toilet training are the three most
important enculturation processes in all human communities. For instance, since the Ijaw country
is riverine, a kid is taught to swim at a young age and placed in the river to float in order to be
enculturated. Similarly, the Yoruba teach their children how to pee and defecate. Enculturation
denotes a learning process that occurs within a cultural group. It entails conditioning and
environmental adaptation processes. It could be unintentional or intentional. An individual must
become proficient in some aspect of his own culture in order to become fully enculturated.
Enculturation typically occurs in a person's early years.

8
Socialization: This is the process by which a person internalizes the values and standards of the
cultural group to which they belong. In all human civilizations, socialization is the process by
which a newborn integrates into society and learns to function as a member. It's the process by
which a person develops into a social or cultural entity. A newborn is a biological person first
and foremost; socialization is the process by which he or she transforms into a social or cultural
creature. All of the knowledge required for a kid or individual to be a productive member of the
community or cultural group is acquired through socialization. One might become aware of or
learn cultural norms through socialization. Additionally, socialization equips a person with the
abilities necessary to pursue their goals in life; the type of goal a person chooses to pursue
depends on the socialization process in place in their community. The person's aspirations are
shaped by the socialization process within the community or cultural group.

Definition and Forms of Social Practices in Nigeria

Social practice

Social practices are the customs and behaviors that are considered normal for a certain cultural
group. This indicates that people who belong to a group or society share certain social practices.
Social practices in Nigerian culture are the recognized or usual methods of carrying out
particular actions in interpersonal relationships. Without social practices, group members' acts
would have no purpose since they are the operational or dynamic components of society's
conventions. A crucial component of the social structure is social practice. Social practices are
what support and underpin the more formal order of social institutions, according to MacIver and
Page (1955). Through the socialization process, social practices are absorbed in Nigeria, starting
in early infancy. As a result, following these social norms is made easier and occurs practically
automatically or mechanically.

Some Notable Social Practices in Nigeria

1. Respect for elders: Among many Nigerian cultural groups, respect for elders is a well-known
practice, and it lingers on the principles of age seniority. It is customary for an individual who is
a few weeks or days older than another to expect respect from their younger counterpart.
According to Fadipe (1970), the seniority concept is applicable to almost every aspect of life and
human interaction. The ritual transcends riches, status, age, and sex. Parents telling their older
child to punish the younger child is a common occurrence in many Nigerian cultures. They
contend that the seniority principle is rooted in the idea that wisdom and knowledge increase
with age in many Nigerian cultures. The maintenance of order in the family, community, and
greater society is the reason why this social activity is relevant.

2.Good conduct: is a social activity that is extremely important in traditional Nigerian culture
since it is difficult to remain anonymous and morality is often respected or held in high regard.
Social engagement in these civilizations is often close-knit and well-informed. Every individual
in the community is addressed by name. People in these kinds of communities should make an
effort to follow social standards in order to gain the respect of their fellow humans and prevent
9
embarrassment or mockery. In these kinds of civilizations, transgressions of the communal code
of conduct catch on like wildfire. Speaking to our elders and seniors, in particular, may be an
aspect of good behavior. For instance, a younger Yoruba person in southwest Nigeria is required
to approach a senior using plural words rather than a singular verb. Another example of
appropriate behavior in various cultural contexts is welcoming people, particularly those who are
older. Additionally, it's considerate to visit a neighbor, close friend, or family member while
they're ill or grieving. This is typically regarded as a transgression by the offended party as well
as by everyone in the group.

3. Derivation of names: Names are typically used for personal identification. Giving names has
deeper meanings in many Nigerian cultural groupings than only identification. For instance, the
naming process aids in the expression of people's views toward the creator. Notably, the Igbo
provide names like Chukwudi (God lives), the Yoruba give names like Olovadare (the Lord is
kind), and the Ljaw give names like Tamarapriye (the gift of God). Certain names, such as
Ogunwole (Ogundeity has returned home), are also connected to deities. Certain names, like
Abiona, which refers to a child delivered while en route to the hospital, also aid in providing
context for the events surrounding the birth. For many Nigerian cultural groups, names are
significant because they provide context for an individual's existence and interactions.

4. Naming ceremony: In Nigerian culture, a child's name ceremony is customarily performed by

their respective culture after birth. The Ibibio people name their children right after birth;
however, most communities observe an eight-day naming process. A child's name is determined
by their parents' religious preferences, the events surrounding their birth, and the sequence in
which they occurred. Names may also have historical significance. Ada is the first female in
Igbo; Taiye-Kehinde is the twin in Yoruba; and Idowu is the kid born after the twin. Hassana and
Husaini are Hausa's twins, while Akpan is Ibibio's first child. The Ijaws have Yoruba Tbekunle
(fertility), Ibos Chukwudi (God dwells), and Tamaraebe (God kindness). It is also associated
with names like Babatunde, Babajide, Iyabode, and Yejide that refer to ancestors reincarnating
into the close family. After prayer, the eldest family member traditionally names the kid at the
naming ceremony; this often entails supplying palm oil, salt, cash, and kola nuts as necessary for
the occasion. It is customary for family members to leave presents for the kid. A child's birth
typically makes the whole community, not just the parents, happy and joyful.

Basic Elements of Nigerian Culture

Within Nigerian traditional society, there are some cultural characteristics that are widely held
and easily recognized by the populace. Among them are the following:

1. Nigerians are very hospitable people. In all ethnic groups, visitors are warmly welcome at
any time of the day. A visitor does not need an appointment to visit a relative. Unlike an average
British man who displays formality, in Nigeria, visitors are treated with respect and honor.
Nigerians would even go to the trouble of creating extravagant shows for their guests, even at
their own inconvenience. The greatest food, beverages, and rest areas are provided to guests
among several ethnic groups. It is not usual for a Nigerian to refuse guests.

10
2. Nigerians are respectful of other members of their community, particularly the elderly.
Nigerians are renowned for their practice of honoring the elderly. Respecting the elderly includes
not just showing consideration for your parents but also for others who are older than you.
Nigerians frequently kneel or prostrate themselves before old people. The Yoruba ethnic group is
prone to this. How we greet our elders is another aspect of respect. While we address our elders
with titles like Mazi, Egbon, Ogbeni, and Yaya, you address them as sister or brother. Anyone
who calls an old man by his name is being disrespectful.

3. Nigerians engage in daily encounters with a strong spirituality. The way the typical
Nigerian greets people, conducts business, and remembers the deceased are a few examples of
their spirituality. Nigeria has the greatest proportion of church attendance (98%), according to
Henslein (2008). This is an illustration of the spirituality of Sunday churchgoers in Nigeria.
Worshippers pray to God at the thousands of churches and mosques located around the nation. In
Nigerian society, there is a widespread conviction in the existence of the Almighty God. Every
ethnic group in Nigeria knows God. He is recognized as the creator, all-powerful, supreme
arbiter, etc.

4. Nigerians love to celebrate every achievement or success in life. Many Nigerian lifestyles
include celebration as a natural aspect of them. Nigeria celebrates every imaginable occasion.
spanning from a child's birth to an elderly family member's passing, marriage, graduation, etc. In
Nigeria, every small accomplishment is equated with enjoyment. Birthdays, marriages, school
graduations, vocational training, new appointments, the construction of a new home
(housewarning), any kind of anniversary (coronation), cultural festivals, and so on are all
celebrated. Nigerians are known to be among the happiest people in the world, which may be
explained by their joyful nature. This joy is reflected in their vibrant and colorful celebrations.

5. Nigerians are very colorful and radiant in every aspect of their social endeavors.
Nigerians prefer to appear or wear nice and bright costumes, gowns, or apparel, which makes
them highly colorful individuals. Many Nigerians have the widespread perception that a person's
social standing is indicated by how colorful they seem. People have a propensity to think highly
of him or her. Nigerians typically use curtain events or rituals to showcase their passion for
color. For instance, during weddings, coronations, birthday celebrations, and commencement
exercises, Nigerians' profound appreciation of colors and styles at various occasions and
ceremonies is the source of their attitude and orientation. For example, black and white textiles
are linked to the Tiv cultural group, whereas black and red textiles are linked to the Ldoma
cultural group. In addition, the Edo are recognized for their use of white cotton clothes and
reading beads on their heads, necks, and wrists, while the Yoruba are well-known for their Aso-
oke clothing.

6. Nigerians have a strong reputation for upholding the extended family structure and for
being their brothers' keepers. The Nigerian extended family fosters a unique closeness among
its members. It forces members to deal with yet another hardship, issue, or obstacle. Nigerians
virtually never accomplish anything without consulting their kin or extended family. The
majority of the time, members of the extended family receive assistance with their jobs,

11
schooling, health, and other requirements. lodging, building a house, memorial services, etc. The
Nigerian people's communal living is the source of the concept of brotherhood.

Language and its Significance in Nigeria Society

Language

Language is one of the most significant aspects of a people's culture. It is the most visible
component of symbols that can be identified in human culture. It is the element of symbols that
is most easily recognized in human civilization. It also serves as a means of passing along culture
from one generation to the next. Culture is carried via language, and it is especially carried
through mental processes in conversation. It is a crucial component of a person's non-material
culture. One of the great qualities of humankind that contributes to peaceful, social, and
developmentally beneficial interactions between people is language. All human civilizations use
language in a dynamic and integrated way. Language allows individuals to express their
thoughts, feelings, ideas, and beliefs with others.

Importance of Indigenous Language in Nigeria

1. An indigenous language helps to define a community's cultural identity; it is the language

used within a culture to set one group apart from another, such as Tiv, Egon, Alagbo, and
Hausa.
2. A specific cultural group's language serves as a medium for passing down cultural values
from one generation to the next. The younger generation learns norms, customs, values,
and the cultural fabric as a whole through language. Language is a representation of a
people's history.
3. The ability to speak one's native language can aid in resolving hostilities and conflicts.
Language has also been used as a tool to incite violence in many parts of Nigeria.
4. The ability of political candidates to speak or utilize their native tongue would increase
their popularity among rural voters. This is another way that the indigenous language
may be used to win elections at the local level.
5. Within a Nigerian cultural group, the native language has economic value. Commerce
potential will undoubtedly be increased by a person's capacity to communicate in their
native tongue or in another language when doing trade or commerce. Speaking the local
tongue, for instance, can help a person at a local market where trading occurs to negotiate
better prices for items and increase profits for themselves as traders.
6. Language serves as a historical identification tool for many civilizations. Language is a
tool for determining cultural affinity within and between various cultural groupings.
Historians and linguists have provided evidence that human cultures that share cognates
or components of their languages have a shared ancestral origin. That is to say, they had
to be cohabiting.
7. In the past, language has served as a medium for the objective study and appreciation of
many cultural groupings. For instance, a large number of anthropologists and historical
linguists conducted, cooperated, and conducted thorough language studies throughout
Nigeria; for example, KaWilliamson's researched the Ijaw language in detail, Johnson
12
 studied the Yoruba language, and Darylford studied the Yako language in Cross River
State.

The Nature and Forms of Marriage in Traditional Nigeria society

Nigerian family structures and marriages. Marriage, as a social institution, is defined in all
human civilizations, including Nigeria, as not only a relationship between two individuals who
want to be married but also a link between two families and even ethnic groupings. The future
husband and wife's families are reunited because of this relationship. A man's and a woman's
family joining together is known as marriage. Mariage creates the bond known as kinship.

Prerequisites for contracting marriage in Nigeria Society

1. The approval and involvement of spouse parents: in Nigeria, it is traditional for the parents of
a man and woman who wish to marry to have some influence over their identity. A son or
daughter gets hitched. It is the moral and social duty of parents to make sure that only honorable
and respectable men and women get married. A parent could, for instance, make efforts to
prevent particular kinship groups from being married to each other. They also make an effort to
dissuade people from getting married to those who have health issues of any kind.

2. Payment of bride price: In Nigerian culture, paying the bride price is one of the necessary
conditions before a marriage is completed. The bride's price might take the form of cash or a
tangible item like a goat, cow, palm oil, quantity of yams, etc. It differs depending on the cultural
group. The brideprice, also known as bride money, is just a symbolic payment made to actualize
the marital bond in legal and social contexts; it is not a real cost associated with purchasing a
wife. The bride's price is only a symbolic payment, and the girl's parents' acceptance of it denotes
their endorsement of the union.

3. Performance of religious rituals or ceremonies: The fulfillment of religious rites is the final
and most important requirement for marriage. Praying for the new husband's or wife's marriage
to succeed is one of the ceremonies performed. Sometimes the couple receives specific items,
such as pouring liquor, sipping local gin, eating food that has been made by family, etc. In many
cultures, a woman is supposed to spend a certain number of days—referred to as the "fattening
period"—living in a closet or house and reflecting on her responsibilities as a wife and mother.
Modern marital customs have also incorporated the period session.

Importance of Marriage in Nigeria Society

1.Marriage fosters alliances between families, allowing communities to form solidarity and
alliances. It also creates in-laws, transforming small families into larger communities.

13
2. Marriage is the official sexual expression outlet for most human groups, satisfying their lust
and desires. It grants exclusive rights to both men and women and societally regulates the
disruptive sexual drive.

3. Marriage is a crucial social mechanism for human societies, fulfilling the biological needs of
sexuality and reproduction, often regulated by specific social control mechanisms.

4. In Nigeria, marriage grants economic and domestic services to a man, transferring the father's
rights to the husband. This practice differs from Europe and America, where women's
enlightenment and emancipation led to a more egalitarian relationship.

5. In Nigeria, marriage grants men and kinsmen legal rights and control over their children,
recognizing them as direct descendants of the husband. This practice is prevalent in African
societies like Nigeria, Malayi, and Ghana.

6. Marriage enables individuals to express their emotions and affection, promoting good mental
health. It provides a supportive environment for receiving affection and care from spouses,
helping individuals overcome mental health challenges.

Forms of Marriage in Nigeria Society

Levirate: Levirate is the custom whereby a man marries his brother's widow, who is the
deceased brother's wife. This marriage custom is an ancient practice that can be traced to the
Hebrews. (Jews) in the Bible. In pre-colonial Nigeria, even in present-day Nigeria, some cultural
groups ‘still encourage a man to marry the wife of his brother. In certain instances, a man could
even marry the wife of his deceased father, though not his mother. Often, the man who is
expected to marry the wife of his father will be older than the wife. Levirate marriage is a
cultural arrangement that ensures that the woman is protected marriage wise and even
economically. A significant function of levirate marriage is that where a family has paid a
highbride price for a wife for their son and he dies, it is fair that the wife belongs to another
younger son of the family. The custom allows more children to be born into the patrilineage of
the dead man. As' a normative function, it serves to provide protection for widows and orphans.

Sororate: Sororate marriage is the custom whereby a man marries the sister of his deceased
wife, provided she is not already married. Sororate is most common in societies where a
considerable' bride price has been paid and the wife's family feels indebted or obliged to provide
"another mate for their. son-in-law. Often, the newwife (that is, the younger. sister) is a much
younger woman considered very fertile to produce children for the living husband. The sororate
marriage arrangement helps to keep and sustain the marital alliance established between the two
families.

Ghost Marriage: The ghost marriage is a marriage custom that requires the younger brother of a
dead bachelor to marry and have children in the name of the deceased. In the pre-colonial period,
this custom was practiced in Nigeria. The younger brother (genitor). takes it as a responsibility to
marry a wife and bears children for the deceased brother, who had no opportunity to contract
14
marriage when he was alive. Both the wife and the children produced from the union belong to
the dead brother. In this context, the wife is specially married to the dead person whom she most
likely had never seen, and the offspring (children) belong to the dead father (known as the pater).

Types of Family in Nigeria Society

The nuclear family is a social structure made up of a man, a woman, and a child or children.
Additionally, the nuclear family is monogamous. marriage contract. The nuclear family, like it is
in modern African urban communities and Euro-America, is a rather equal social unit that
restricts itself to a neolocal type of dwelling. Pre-colonial Nigerian society was not characterized
by the nuclear family. Its rise to prominence was facilitated by the arrival of colonialism,
Christianity, industrialization, and urbanization. Why is the nuclear family so common or well-
liked in Nigeria?

i. The advent of colonial administration led to the migration of young men into the cities.

ii.The advent of Christianity, which encouraged nuclear family arrangements because they were
in line with the Christian doctrine of one-man-one-wife.

iii. the emergence of new urban settlements that include Ibadan, Lagos, Onitsha, Kaduna, Port
Harcourt, Calabar, etc. This further encourages the influx of rural dwellers to these settlements in
search of the most-paid employment.

iv.The rapid industrialization of the Nigerian economy (the establishment of European

companies like Leventis Group in Lagos, Lever Brother Lagos, Coal Corporation in Enugu, and
Tin Mining Company in Josafter the advent of colonial administration). Also, the construction of
the railway transport system across major. cities accelerated modern rate employment.

The extended family is made up of parents, grandparents, children, and other relatives who are
related to you both by blood and marriage; great-grandparents; siblings who shared a home either
in the same unit or in many units closer to one another; and in certain institutions, living a
considerable distance from one another. The links that bind members of an extended family
together are those of consanguinity or affinity (in-law).

The significance of extended families in Nigeria.

i. It provides a kind of psychological support to its members, for example, in times of crisis, such
as sickness or death, extended family members are expected to give needed support, especially
for the children or even those that have some form of medical problems. The extended family, as
a social organization, reassures its members, which gives them a sense of belonging or security
in times of crisis. For example, the elderly are assured of support in the presence of their
grandchildren and are saved from loneliness; similarly,parents equally assist their adult children
with the care of their newborn children.

15
ii.The extended family in Nigerian society exists for the purpose of promoting good morals. It is
the role of extended family members like grandparents and other relatives to discipline and
socialize the little children according to proverbs and wise sayings. These elderly parents teach
their grandchildren certain morals and encourage them not to be deviants in society. The
obligation and duties for moral training rest with such members of the family.

iii. The extended family promotes adequate mental health. This is because the existence of a
large number of playmates and confidants greatly helps to diffuse tension and anxiety, as well as
depression, especially for children with certain debilitating behavioral traits. The extended
family group ensures conducive social interaction and mutual trust and confidence among
members. For example, a female adolescent who experiences menstrual flow for the very first
time can easily confine her worries to her grandmother or aunt in the event that her mother is not
around.

iv. The extended family serves as an avenue. for rendering labor for economic production
enterprises, the subsistence nature of the traditional Nigerian economy that requires ore hands in
the farmland to cultivate food. The extended family members, both young and old, collectively
provide the needed labor for economic production required for the immediate needs of the family
and market.

v. The extended family serves as a ready base for an individual to gain wisdom and guidance
from the. aged (elderly) members. The benefit of this is that the individual can tackle marital and
other life's threatening challenges and problems through the wisdom of the elderly members of
the extended family. The closeness of the younger member of the family to the elderly enables
him or her to seek and acquire wisdom and knowledge that are invaluable to the individual and
society at large.

The Reasons for the Breakdown of the Extended Family Structure in Nigeria

The rapid urbanization of Nigerian society has far-reaching effects on the gradual breakdown of
the extended family structure. The advent of colonial administration and Western civilization no
doubt resulted in the cross-breeding of foreign cultures with Nigerian cultures. At the dawn of
the twentieth century, there was a progressive erosion of the importance of the extended family
structure in our society. Most new generation Nigerians now find themselves in a new urban
environment or settlement, which in turn makes them discard traditional values and embrace
foreign values. The aftereffect of this development is that it now makes them embrace western-
style family 'arrangement and forget particularly their extended family members in rural areas.

2. The ever-increasing materialistic tendencies of many young people in the country This
development, no doubt, has been influenced by the new forms of employment and occupations in
contemporary Nigerian society. As a result of this, the younger generations are gradually.
separating themselves from the older generations who live in the rural communities’emergence
of modern professionals like lawyers, doctors, nurses, university lecturers, and military
personnel, all of whom have seriously weakened the extended family system in Nigeria.

16
3. The introduction of Islam and Christianity as foreign religions has equally weakened the
extended family structure in Nigeria. For example, it is common practice to see members of an
extended family belonging to different Christian denominations, like Anglican, Methodist,
ECWA, Catholic, and Deeper Life. This also applies to the Islamic faithful, like Ansar-Ud'Deen,
Zimratu, Almadyah, etc. In addition, in the case of. Christianity, it came with strict doctrines and
teachings from one man to one wife. This has gradually reduced the strong attachment people
have to the extended family structure in the country; moreover, both Christianity and Islam as a
religion stress individual rather than collective salvation. This attitude of many Nigerians has
made them detach from the extended family's network hitherto identified among Nigerians.

4. The advent of partisan politics in the country since the 1950s and 1960s has also helped to
weaken the extended family structure. The evolution of party politics no doubt added its own
dimension to the erosion of extended family ties in Nigeria. Political parties’ ideologies often cut
across family linkages. It is one veritable instrument that usually divides members of the same
lineage or extended family in the country, to the extent that they even see each other as arch-
enemies.

This trend in Nigerian politics has developed. to the extent where political participation in close
relations is interpreted as politics with bittiness (leading to the destruction of lives and properties
in the first and second republics).

5. Spatial distance, especially for young urban dwellers, has gradually eroded the relevance of
the extended family arrangement in the country. As the saying goes, “out of sight is out of
mind." The phenomenon of spatial distance has been encouraged due to a number of factors.
First is the flexibility or change in the rules of residence that has been managed by most young
couples in recent years. As a result of an employment opportunity, a man will have to live far
from his ancestral homestead,most likely in a city where he earns his monthly salary or income.
In addition,distance weakens an extended family member's social network due to the absence of
regular communication among its members. Although this factor is no stronger due to the advent
of the mobile telecommunication system in the country in recent years,

Special.

6. The advent of the Western capitalist economy has also weakened the extended family
structure. The advent of modern forms of employment in the public and private sectors does not
give room for frivolous shearing of income or wealth for extended family members. The
orientation for most young families now is how they will care for and give a quality standard of
living to the immediate, nuclear family.

This has encouraged the accumulation of wealth within the nuclear family.

8. The emergence of some alternative institutions or bodies in the country has replaced the
indispensable role that extended family members like grandparents play in society. In
most urban areas, there have emerged novel bodies like daycare centers, crèches, and
house maids that provide support to career mothers. Similarly, in many urban areas, we

17
 can find socio-cultural clubs, groups, or associations that serves as better substitute for
the extended family. These groups/associations givenecessary economic, financial and
psychological support to members in times ofneed or crisis.

The Nature and Structure of the Traditional Belief System in Nigeria

'Religion is a set of beliefs and practices among individuals that relate to supernatural beings.
The major structure of traditional regions is:

1. Belief in the Supreme Being. The Supreme Being is real to Nigerians. He created the universe
and sustained it; the Yoruba call the supreme being Olodumare; the Hausa call him Ubangi; the
Tobio Abasi; all these names depict that Nigeria has the firm belief that there is a supreme being.
The Supreme Being is the first among equals; he created even the deities, so the Supreme Being
is real in Nigeria; he is called the Almighty.

Some qualities of the Supreme Being in traditional Nigerian society:

i. He is the creator of the universe. He solely created everything in the whole world.

ii. He is Omnipotent, that is, He is the all-powerful God, and the Almighty

iii. He is omniscient, that is, he knows everything, even the innermost thoughts of human
beings.

iv. Omnipresent: it means God is everywhere that Nupe calls Sokogoa (he is in the sky).

v. God is the ultimate judge. Most often, Africans acknowledge God's status as the
ultimate judge when they leave everything in God's hands.

2. The belief in the existence of gods or deities In almost all Nigerian culturegroups there exist
one form of supernatural beings that areclassified as both gods/deities. Often, they represent
certain specialties or occupations. The gods and diets are considered intermediaries between
humans and the Supreme Being.

3. The belief in ancestors. The belief in ancestors or ancestress is widely spread among many
Nigerian cultural groups. The ancestors are considered guardians. This is because the ancestors
who behaved still live with the living members of society. This is derived from the general belief
that death is not the end of life but only a transmigration to another life beyond this present
world, that is, the world of the dead.

4. Practice of Magic and Medicine: Magie is closely related to religion, and it means by which
humans manipulate the powers or the supernatural for their own selfish benefits. It is an
intriguing aspect of Nigeria's indigenous religion. Magic is divided into three forms. These are
contagious magic, repetitive magic, and imitative magic.

18
5. Belief in witches and sorcerers: Witchcraft is based on the belief that certain person(s)
possesses an innate (usually psychic) capability of causing harm, which includes sickness or
death. A sorcerer is a person who engages in the use of mystic powers that involve the
performance of rites and spells- with the intention of causing harm to others.

The Nature of Traditional Political Institution in Nigeria

The Nigerian people have always understood politics, which is one reason why every cultural
development has created a special political framework that works for the community. Nigerian
societies are characterized by a variety of political structures, such as the monarchical political
system, the band political system, the segmentary political system, and the chiefdom political
system. A number of reasons have been identified as responsible for the relevance
of the continued survival of the traditional political institution in Nigeria.

First, there is the affection that individuals have for their customary residence. Even with the
majority of rural regions being neglected or underdeveloped, individuals are nevertheless drawn
to return to or stay in their hometown. Nigerians have always loved their ancestral home. Many
Nigerians believe that the purpose of metropolitan regions is solely for people to live and work in
order to make a livelihood, but the purpose of the ancestral house is to be developed. For
instance, many embrace traditional titles like Emir, Obi, and Oba and give up the glitter of city
life because of their dedication to and pride in their ancestral home etc.

2. Political institutions' ability to survive was also influenced by Nigeria's political past. When
Nigeria embraced the pre-planetary era of governance, the regions at the time were led by a
house of chiefs. Even some traditional leaders were appointed government ministers. Even now,
conventional authorities continue to have a significant impact on the nation's decision-making
process at all levels of government. For instance, traditional leaders "are appointed as ceremonial
heads (Chancellors) of many universities in the country," such as the Emir, Oba, Obi, Mayanabo,
Tor, Etsu, etc.

3. It has also been acknowledged from the religious beliefs of many Nigerians or ordinary
Nigerians that, even today, traditional authority is earthly representative of God. Therefore, in
spite of the advent of modernization in contemporary Nigerian society, This belief is still! widely
spread among Nigerians, and for this reason, the Nigerian traditional authorities represent the
sacredness of the supreme gods or deities.

4. The resurgence of certain policies of modern government, such as the Federal Character with
regards to employment, the Quarter System, or catchment areas, As admission into universities
and other policies that are assumed to be discriminatory at the center and state levels have
strengthened the relevance of traditional political institutions, most often indigenous citizens are
told to bring letters from their traditional rulers.

19
5. The lack of a social welfare scheme in the. city or urban areas is another factor. This scenario
or condition comes to the fore when people work and retire without any reliable social security
for them and their families. In such a situation, prisoners or referees usually seek some form of
support from family members and even traditional rulers who are influential or financially
buoyant in anticipation of such In some circumstances, people wishing to return to their roots
tried to be in the good books of the traditional institution or authority.

6. Economic hardship in Nigeria has led to job losses in both public and private sectors, causing
hardship for many Nigerians, especially urban dwellers. First-generation migrants face poor
income and lack of suitable accommodation, leading them to move to rural communities for
modest housing and farming. Traditional authorities often provide support and encouragement
for these city dwellers, who now cultivate farmlands and establish pet projects for youth and
women empowerment in rural communities.

Concept and Functions of Market in Traditional Nigeria Society

Market:

From the perspective of the general public, the word "market" denotes or refers to a specific
location or structure where people gather to purchase and sell, or it may represent the volume of
transactions involving goods or commodities. Imagine all of the customary towns, villages, or
communities that are designated as market days on this particular day. Either four or seven days
might pass in between. In markets, makeshift stores are haphazardly set up and shown, and
transactions occur outside. There, vendors and purchasers bartered and made deals. A market in
traditional Nigerian society is more than just a location where people go to purchase and sell
products. In addition to serving as a center for economic activity, it also has a number of social
and cultural functions.

The market is a channel through which cultural values or characteristics are also transmitted.
Some people, for instance, have learned two languages. the capacity to communicate in
languages other than their own tongue. Additionally, the market serves as a conduit for the cross-
cultural transmission of both material and non-material cultures. For example, the market is
where individuals learn about body adornments.

Functions of Market in Traditional Nigeria Society

1. It's a means for people to earn their livelihood. Even in traditional communities, the market
provides a means for people to engage in profitable endeavors. Some people's main source of
income is the selling of products including food, vegetables, crops, textiles, clothes, and tools

20
used in manufacturing (such hoes and cutlasses) as well as home furnishings like kettles and
posts).

2. It provides opportunities for those who were unable to create certain commodities and services
due to geographical limitations, labor division, or occupational specialty to buy or trade such
goods and services.

3. The traditional market provides opportunities for casual, actual, as well as prospective lovers,
both old and young, to meet and discuss and is at some form of compromise. Most young people
have met their spouses in the market.

4: The market provides a helpful opportunity for members of a community or village to rest.
from the. rigors of their daily work, i.e., going to the farm, engaging in fishing, hunting, crafting,
and other economic activities.

5. The traditional market. serve as a refinement force for neighbor communication,to settle
conflict, or to chart new developments or projects like the construction of roads, bridges, and
other aspects of inter-communal relationships.

6. The market provides an opportunity for people to display affluence, lifestyle, and other social
status in society.

Some Nigerian Indigenous Technological Systems

Like many other nations, Nigeria has a long history of developing indigenous technical systems
that have developed over the years to meet the varying demands of the country's inhabitants.
Notable indigenous technical systems in Nigeria include the following:

1. Traditional Medicine: Nigeria has a long history of using different herbs, roots, and other
natural resources for medicinal purposes in its ancient medical practices. Herbalists and
practitioners of traditional medicine, sometimes referred to as traditional healers, are vital to the
provision of healthcare, particularly in rural regions where access to modern facilities may be
restricted.

2. Adire Textile: In southern Nigeria, especially in Abeokuta and Ibadan, the Yoruba people
make adire, a traditional textile dyed with indigo. The procedure incorporates a number of
traditional methods, such as resist-dying, which creates patterns on cloth by pre-dying it with
wax or starch.

3. Pottery Making: For thousands of years, Nigerians have valued pottery as a skill. Every
ethnic group has its own distinctive pottery methods and styles. Women are often the main
potters, employing age-old techniques of hand-building and firing to create a variety of objects,
including cooking pots, water jars, and ornamental pieces.

21
4. Blacksmithing: Nigerians have been practicing blacksmithing for ages, producing tools,
swords, and ornamental objects with their expert craftsmen utilizing age-old methods. Within
certain families or towns, the trade is frequently passed down through the centuries, and
blacksmiths are integral to the local economy and cultural activities.

5. Weaving: Another ancient art practiced across Nigeria is weaving, with several areas having
their own unique materials and weaving patterns. Examples of indigenous weaving traditions are
the handwoven textiles known as Aso-Oke among the Yoruba and Akwete cloth among the Igbo.

6. Traditional Architecture: Nigeria's unique cultural past is reflected in the multitude of

indigenous architectural styles that can be seen throughout the country. The intricate palaces of
the Benin Kingdom in the south, the traditional mud-brick homes of the Hausa-Fulani in the
north, and the unusual circular huts of the Tiv people in the middle belt area are a few examples.

7. Farming Techniques: Nigerian farmers have created advanced farming techniques tailored to
the varied ecosystems and climate of their nation. For millennia, conventional agricultural
techniques, including crop rotation, intercropping, and agroforestry, have been used and are still
vital to livelihoods and food security.

These locally developed technology systems contribute to Nigeria's social, economic, and
environmental sustainability by showcasing the nation's rich cultural legacy and preserving
important information and skills that have been passed down through the years.

22