5 importance of culture in nigeria

Kanuri, Fulani, Hausa, Tiv - are the most densely populated groups that live in the north. They have a strong culture of colourful masquerades that entertain people during festivals and other important functions. Nigerias culture rooted in fashion, film, music, and literature translates into enhanced international prestige. Radio, television, and other forms of home entertainment (e.g., recorded music and movies) have also grown in popularity, though their use is dependent on the availability of electricity. We live in a multi-faceted country. We are all different, but culture helps to unite us. Some of the most prominent ethnic groups include the likes of the Fulani, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and Ijaw. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. Global Health Program, Higher Education Webinar: Teaching the History of American Democracy, Webinar The region is well-known for its hospitality, cuisine and music. The principal exports are palm oil and palm kernels. After reading this article you will find out why. The Igbo ethnic group, of which I belonged to, are mostly christian. They are fond of the expression, "When Nigeria sneezes, the rest of the African nations (with the exception of South Africa) catch cold.". Nigerians are a group of people who are so different but still united as one in the quest to achieve a common purpose of nation-building. Owing to the affinity they have with water, a significant number of the Ijaw people are discovered as migrant fishermen in camps that are as far west as Sierra Leone and as far east as Gabon. It can be argued that the intellectual level of a society depends on how adequately that particular society can use its richest knowledge embedded in history and generations past. . Unfortunately, in our country, some subcultures oppose each other which lead to the spread of cultural differences in Nigeria. Location: Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Benin and Cameroon, Ethnic Groups: over 250 ethnic groups including Hausa and Fulani 29%, Yoruba 21%, Igbo (Ibo) 18%, Ijaw 10%, Kanuri 4%, Ibibio 3.5%, Tiv 2.5%, Religions: Muslim 50%, Christian 40%, indigenous beliefs 10%, Business Culture: Ranked 50th in the Business Culture Complexity Index. The culture of Nigeria is shaped by Nigeria's multiple ethnic groups. As a developing country, Nigeria faces challenges regarding its infrastructure. Men from this tribe are known to wear large flowing gowns known as Babban Riga and also a robe-like dress called Jalabia or Juanni. Any attempt to bypass this protocol will hamper your business success. #1: A land of over 200 million smiles Home to over 200 million inhabitants, Nigeria has one of the largest populations of youth, and is the sixth most populous country in the world. They may smile to mask their true feelings, especially when disappointed or confused. Before looking at the importance and types of culture in Nigeria, its good to know the definition. We can say that culture as a whole determines the framework in which a person can and should act. The Ijaw people are said by some to be the descendants of the autochthonous people of Africa known as the (H) ORU. Photo by IITA (CC BY-NC 2.0). While Nigeria has always been politically and culturally influential on the African continent thanks to its large population and enormous oil wealth, the Times coverage is the latest example of growing Western interest in Nigerian culture. For example, it is typical for Nigerians to have three weddings, unless they are getting married to foreigners. Wole Soyinka, who won the 1986 Nobel Prize for Literature, was the first Black African to receive the award. The number of languages currently estimated and catalogued in Nigeria is 521. Ekpe masks and ikenga (personal shrines) from the Igbo in eastern Nigeria and ibeji (twin) sculptures from the Yoruba in western Nigeria are just three examples of the art produced in pre-colonial Nigeria. Clearly, the system of culture is not only complex and diverse, but also very mobile. Because so many Nigerians live outside the country, funerals for non-Muslims are often delayed for a month or more to allow all the family members to make plans to return home. Another major Nigerian city is Port Harcourt. This is also an important political issue, as the Nigerian federalism tried to put together the achievements of the modern democratic West European state and the local cultural traditions. Vast wealth has been generated by it, and it is currently the second-largest film industry in the world by output. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020). Other forms of traditional food include fufu, eba, okra, egusi, and ogbono. A colonial explorer stole Aboriginal spears in 1770. Centuries later In fact, over 250 languages and dialects are used across Nigerias 36 states. In the course of socialization the values, ideals, norms, patterns of behavior become a part of a person's self-awareness. It is used for keeping records of important events, history and culture. The Ijaws were originally known by this name (Oru); at least it was what their immediate neighbours assumed them to be. Investing in your people is an investment in a healthy culture, and so it follows that a lack of investment is one of the biggest cultural risk factors. Sometimes even consumer products are marketed by focusing on a higher being. The constitution guarantees religious freedom. You may also find their tone slightly louder than elsewhere. Their traditional religion, Ifa, has been recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral tradition of Humanity. Age is believed to be the main wisdom of the nation. Similarly a family's honour is influenced by the actions of its members. 6. Furthermore, Nigerians are known for their larger-than-life celebrations, and definitely, go the extra mile to make sure to throw notable and enjoyable events for their attendees. [86] The men wear buba (long shirt), sokoto (baggy trousers), agbada (flowing robe with wide sleeves) and fila (a hat). Muslims observe Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, and the two Eids. Nigeria has a rich culture. All this diversity makes the unification of Nigerians into a single nation a rather difficult task. Nigerians are very religious and spiritual people. In recent time, the styles have evolved to more contemporary designs. , and definitely, go the extra mile to make sure to throw notable and enjoyable events for their attendees. [39] Their traditional religion is known as Omenani/Omenala. Music and dance are integral to Nigerian culture, and each ethnic group has its own specialties. Nigeria - Daily life and social customs | Britannica This work is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) License. The country is often discussed in terms of its regions (i.e., North, Southeast, and Southwest) and its dominant tribes. For those needing a more detailed and comprehensive overview of Nigeria we have published an expert, Report on Nigerian Society, Culture & Business, here to learn more about our customized cultural training. A curation of original analyses, data visualizations, and commentaries, examining the debates and efforts to improve health worldwide. . Language is the most important way of mastering the national culture. Nigerian traditions are wide and vary in the different cultures. A Hausa farmer. [51] The Yoruba people have always shared a common language called the Yoruba language and the same culture for hundreds of years now but they were less likely to be a single political unit. People in urban regions of Nigeria dress in western style, the youth mainly wearing jeans and T-shirts. [78], Traditional musicians use a number of diverse instruments, such as Gongon drums. Types of Culture in Nigeria and Their Importance (2023) In return the most senior person has the responsibility to make decisions that are in the best interest of the group. For example, it is typical for Nigerians to have three weddings, unless they are getting married to foreigners. Nigeria has three main environmental regions: savanna, tropical forests, and coastal wetlands. with Ivan Kanapathy, Bonny Lin and Stephen S. Roach Long before the arrival of the Fulani people, the Hausa had already formed and made well-organised city states; some of these states include Katsina, Daura, Kano Zazzau (Zaria), Biram, Gobir and Borno. with Ivan Kanapathy, Bonny Lin and Stephen S. Roach, Nigerians Growing Cultural Influence Around the World, Conflict at the Root of Food Insecurity in Africa, Swift Response to Open Letter Alleging Gender-Based Corruption in Rwandan Cycling. The bulk of the Hausa-Fulani population is mainly centered in and around the centres of Sokoto, Kano and Katsina, which are said to be important market centres on the southern area of the trans-Saharan caravan trade routes. His personalized sound, dubbed Afrobeat, is now one of the continent's most widely recognised genres. [76], Nigeria is known for its many traditional dishes. Nigeria's rich cultural heritage boasts of huge eclectic and colourful festivals that are full of rhythm, brilliant colours, fun and great pace. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. 3 Best Alternative Digital Banks in Nigeria for Online Transaction. You invest in security. National Cultural Dimensions-Nigeria | Cultural Sensitivity in the For women, the loose-fitting blouse goes down a little below the waist. Supporters of English football clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea often segregate beyond the traditional tribal and even religious divide to share their common cause in Premier League teams. The women wear their hair in native styles such as Suku. This article presents a high-level introduction to Nigeria's cultural heritage. It explores what is meant by the term 'cultural heritage', while providing examples of same in Nigeria. Beautifully crafted sculptures of wood, brass, and terracotta are common things among the Yoruba. Make a point of studying any business card you receive before putting it into a business card holder. In some of Nigeria's northern states, polygamy is legal and men may marry several wives. The Hausa and Fulani ethnic groups are said to be one of the largest ethnic groupings in Nigeria, if not the largest, with a population of over 20 million people.The Hausa and Fulani live in the northern part of Nigeria. There is an indefinite number of cultures around the world. 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The Oshogbo movement, founded in the early 1960s, includes the artists Muraina Oyelami, Twins Seven-Seven (Prince Taiwo Osuntoki), Bisi Fabunmi, Tijani Mayakiri, Rufus Ogundele, and Ademola Onibonokuta. Art is created serve many purposes, among these are: 1. Importance of culture Nigeria culture plays an important role in lives of separate individuals and the society as the whole. Nigeria is the most populous African country, and also amongst the top 10 most populous countries in the world with approximately 195 million people. For men the loose-fitting shirt goes down to halfway down the thigh. Other traditions include the mother-in-law helping the daughter-in-law after giving birth and younger men going for apprenticeships with older and wealthier men. by Lindsay Maizland Protection of Cultural Heritage: The Nigerian experience This is due to the large number of ethnic groups that exist in the country. Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. In the southwest, where the people are from the Yoruba tribe, peoples communication employs proverbs, sayings and even songs to enrich the meaning of what they say. After radio and television stations were established in all the state capitals, they began broadcasting programs featuring traditional music and dance, folk operas, and storytelling; these programs are now available in some 25 languages. Drinks include traditional brews like palm wine. www.commisceo-global.com. To rush a greeting is extremely rude; spend time inquiring about the other persons general well-being. The climate in Nigeria is typically hot, ranging from 28 38 degrees Celsius depending on the time of the year. The significance of Ife culture in Nigerian history will be discussed below: The Origin of Ife Culture in Nigeria In Yoruba land, Ife is considered the place of creation. The Ogbunike Caves are found in a valley in the tropical forest of southeast Nigeria, in Anambra State. It is richer than all other West African nations and holds considerable power. The most important task for the government is to find ways to unite people, rather than divide them. Their religion, mode of dressing, food, marriage, and language are all unique. Anywhere you find yourself in the Nigerian territory, you will meet a unique group of people who are set in their ways and would blow your mind away with their ways of life. The traditionally nomadic Fulani can be found all over West and Central Africa. NIGERIA CULTURAL DIVERSITY. | World Scouting - scouts.org Nigeria has a rich artistic heritage, including both traditional and contemporary art forms. Any disagreement between members will be interpreted as meaning that you are not relaying the entire story and that they should proceed cautiously. Nigerian literature is known throughout the world. It is believed that the Igbo people originated in an area that is about 100 miles north of their current location at the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers. Men may place their left hand on the other persons shoulder while shaking hands. Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. Nigerians are generally enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. In the Yoruba tradition, women wear an iro (wrapper), buba (loose shirt) and gele (head-wrap). Backed by a suite of sophisticated services and solutions, KPA brings in-depth insights, diverse experiences, and genuine care to every client engagement to deliver the results you need to exceed your set business goals. The Nigerian national football team,[73] nicknamed the "Super Eagles", is the national team of Nigeria, run by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Firstly, Nigeria's scores on the Cultural Dimension scale reveal that Nigerians place great value on Performance Orientation, Future Orientation, and In-group Collectivism. Nigeria As A Country In Africa; The country Nigeria never come into existence not until the British empire colonies Nigeria and a named for the country was named after the dominating Niger river as put forward in the year 1980s by a journalist from British whose name is Flora Shaw and later . The men sometimes also add a cap called Fula to their dressing. The women wear Iro and Buba and tie a complimentary headgear. For example, the cassavas can be ground up and the flour used to make a delicious and inexpensive porridge. Both concepts, each an aspect of a single whole, aspire to protect and preserve the purity, sanctity and sacredness of the land and the people therein. Families are a crucial aspect of Nigerian society and are typically larger than in the west. 5. The first wedding is traditional, the second one being in a court, while the third is in the church or the mosque. [20][21][22] Indigenous religious practices remain important to all of Nigeria's ethnic groups however, and frequently these beliefs are blended with Christian or Muslim beliefs, a practice known as syncretism. 13 Things You Need to Know About Nigeria - Google Arts & Culture Individuals turn to members of the extended family for financial aid and guidance, and the family is expected to provide for the welfare of every member. [55] Oyo and the other kingdoms declined in the late 18th and 19th centuries owing to disputes among minor Yoruba rulers and invasions by the Fon of Dahomey (now Benin) and the Muslim Fulani. The difference in the way we work, live and interact with each other is as a result of the culture we have come to be a part of. Nigeria's vibrant popular culture reflects great changes in inherited traditions and adaptations of imported ones. Most of the foods are spicy, especially in the west and the south. The Ijaw culture of the South has been influenced greatly by its location on the coast and the interaction with foreigners that it necessitated. Culture regulates the behavior of a person in his family, school, at work, home, etc., by putting forward a system of prescriptions and prohibitions. Most people who are a part of this ethnic group are based in the southeastern part of Nigeria, they contribute to about 17 percent of the country's population. The oldest person in a group is revered and honoured. In spite of all these different languages, English is widely spoken around the country. That the Igbos were prospering long before the colonial masters came The Igbo-Ukwu culture's place in Nigerian history also demonstrates that the indigenous inhabitants of Nigeria had a stable way of life and were prospering long before the arrival of the colonial rulers. The importance of culture in Nigeria cannot be overestimated. In the southern areas a variety of soups containing a base of tomatoes, onions, red pepper, and palm oil are prepared with vegetables such as okra and meat or fish. Culture unites people, integrates them, and ensures their strength as a community. Shared below is some helpful information about Nigerian culture. Most weekdays. Nigerians are generally, enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. Weekly. The women wear wrappers and shirts and cover their heads with hijabs (veils).[89]. [63][64], Nigerian Nobel laureate[65] Wole Soyinka[66] described the work as "the first novel in English which spoke from the interior of the African character, rather than portraying the African as an exotic, as the white man would see him. A little more than half of all Nigerians are of the Christian faith, while most of the rest are Islamic. 1. Shake hands at the beginning and end of meetings. Nigeria is a hierarchical society. Four full-color images cover the page, each of the creators and editors of influential culture and fashion magazines based in Lagos. 'Omenana' is man-made; it is easily changed and is adaptable. The three largest ethnic groups are the Hausas that are predominantly in the north, the Yorubas who predominate in the southwest, and the Igbos in the southeast. The early mosques built by men of this tribe were bright and colourful often including intricate engravings and elaborate designs. [42][43], The Ijaw people are said to be a collection of people that are native to the Niger Delta area in Nigeria. Curtis shares a powerful quote from Reid Hoffman, founder of LinkedIn, about the importance of the first 100 hires in shaping a company's culture. One way that Nigeria is unique is through its heritage. Some would argue that the real soundtrack of Nigeria is not Afrobeats, but the din of diesel generators as most Nigerians, even if they are connected to mains . with Jeremi Suri Ekiti Yoruba dancers wear head masks so heavy that they can do only processional dances.