5 importance of culture in nigeria 5 importance of culture in nigeria

One way that Nigeria is unique is through its heritage. For example, it is typical for Nigerians to have three weddings, unless they are getting married to foreigners. Never use the left hand only. Culture unites people, integrates them, and ensures their strength as a community. [88] Hausa men wear barbarigas or kaftans (long flowing gowns) with tall decorated hats. Gifts are not always opened when received. The Ijaw people are said by some to be the descendants of the autochthonous people of Africa known as the (H) ORU. Things arent perfect, but Im grateful for what I have., Factors to be Aware of When Visiting Nigeria for Business. This group is predominantly Muslim as Islam was introduced into Nigeria by the Fulanis. Our culture determines the way we communicate with others. Therefore, old people are always granted respect. A gift for the children is always a nice touch. One of the earliest of these was Ben Ewonwu, who painted in oils as well as producing sculptures; to commemorate the visit to Nigeria of Queen Elizabeth II of England in 1956, Ewonwu made a bronze statue of her, later displayed at the Nigerian House of Representatives in Lagos. Food and eating food is a universal experience, an element of common ground in terms of . The number of ethnic groups and dialects stand at more than 1,150. [8][9][10][11] There are many other ethnic groups with sizeable populations across the different parts of the country. C.V. Starr & Co. Importance of culture Nigeria culture plays an important role in lives of separate individuals and the society as the whole. Seafood, beef, poultry, and goat are the primary sources of protein. [74] Praised by Nigerians for the strength it gives, garri is "the number one staple carbohydrate food item in Nigeria",[75] Opay.ng - Every transaction made on this app is very fast; the delivery rate is 99%, which means you don't need to worry anytime you make a payment on this platform.Plus, every transaction on the app is free. The earth spirit, Ana, is 'odinana', as is the sacred role of yam in the Igbo world, the right of inheritance, and the place of the elder. [53] They eventually became the most urbanized Africans of precolonial times. Any disagreement between members will be interpreted as meaning that you are not relaying the entire story and that they should proceed cautiously. Age and position earns, even demands, respect. For men the loose-fitting shirt goes down to halfway down the thigh. With so many different cultures and regions, food can vary greatly. Violation of these laws will lead to certain sanctions that are established by the community and are supported by the power of public opinion. A very important source of information on modern Nigerian art is the Virtual Museum of Modern Nigerian Art operated by the Pan-Atlantic University in Lagos. A little more than half of all Nigerians are of the Christian faith, while most of the rest are Islamic. ", "The Fulani - A Nomadic Tribe in Northern Nigeria", "Usman dan Fodio | Fulani leader | Britannica", "Igbo | Culture, Lifestyle, & Facts | Britannica", "Omenana and Odinana in the Igbo World: A Philosophical Appraisal", "ODINANI (OMENALA)- IGBO CONCEPT OF LAW AND MORALITY-signed.pdf", "NZE NA OZO TITLE IN IGBO CULTURE: A PHILOSOPHICAL REFLECTION ON ITS SIGNIFICANCE IN A CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY", "Ozo Title: An Indigenous Institution In Traditional Religion That Upholds Patriarchy In Igbo Land South-Eastern Nigeria", "Ijaw Culture: A brief walk into the lives of one of the world's most ancient people", "ijaw people - ethnic group - gospelflavour", "Showcasing The Ijaw Culture and People of Bayelsa from South-South Nigeria - Courtesy The Scout Association of Nigeria | World Scouting", "BRIEF HISTORY OF THE IJO PEOPLE Ijaw (IZON) World Studies", "The Traditional Political System of the Yoruba", "The kl (Yorb, Nigeria) Migration Theories and Insignia", "3. They are the most dispersed set of people in Nigeria as they can be found all over the country. "[67] Nigeria has other notable writers of English language literature. Beans and root vegetables are ubiquitous. For example, the cassavas can be ground up and the flour used to make a delicious and inexpensive porridge. Global Health Program, Higher Education Webinar: Teaching the History of American Democracy, Webinar by Olivia Angelino, Thomas J. Bollyky, Elle Ruggiero and Isabella Turilli Cultures and indigenous values must evolve bottom-up policies and approaches to growth and development in the country. Nigeria has two seasons: rainy season, which occurs in April until September, and dry season, which is referred to as Harmattan. Nigeria's vibrant popular culture reflects great changes in inherited traditions and adaptations of imported ones. With improved learning and health, increased tolerance, and opportunities to come together with others, culture enhances our quality of life and increases overall well-being for both individuals and communities. Lots of Yoruba people still practice the traditional religion but a large number have embraced Christianity and Islam. Although this group is found throughout the grasslands of West Africa, the bulk of the population is found in Northern Nigeria in states like Sokoto, Kano, and Katsina. [59], Although chiefs have few official powers today, they are widely respected, and prominent monarchs are often courted to endorse politicians during elections in the hopes of them conferring legitimacy to their campaigns by way of doing so. The fact that the Times chose to profile the heads of Nigerias lifestyle magazines on the front page of its business section is even more notable, as it illustrates the growth of Nigerias international cultural influence. Nigeria has two seasons: rainy season, which occurs in April until September, and dry season, which is referred to as Harmattan. Although this militant activity concerns the entire nation, these groups primarily impact the northeast region of Nigeria. It is used for decoration and beautification. Since the 1990s the Nigerian movie industry, sometimes called "Nollywood", has emerged as a fast-growing cultural force all over Africa. The Igbo political system isnt strong which explains why they are not a politically strong unit within the Nigerian system. 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. There is an indefinite number of cultures around the world. One of the main features of culture in Nigeria is its hierarchical system. 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. Nigerians are generally, enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. Nollywood movies are beginning to reach audiences in Europe and the United States, with cities such as Frankfurt, Los Angeles, and Toronto now hosting Nollywood film festivals. Culture creates favorable opportunities for acquiring knowledge and physical development. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. Furthermore, Nigerians are known for their. It used for . This ethnic group is well known for their colourful but modest dress due to their strong religious beliefs. Successful Nigerians, such as businessmen and the said politicians, typically themselves aspire to the holding of chieftaincies, and the monarchs' control of the honours system that provides them to them serves as an important royal asset. The highest position Nigeria ever reached on the ranking was 5th, in April 1994. 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. In the pre-colonial period, they controlled a powerful empire. As its name indicates, Port Harcourt is another port city that also hosts an international airport. Their origins are steeped in great traditions of religious obeisance, traditional games, folklore, dance and drama. It is a good idea to include any advanced university degree on your business card. 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. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. The most common greeting is a handshake with a warm, welcoming smile. Since then, Nigerian and African patterns, colour schemes, and motifs have been incorporated into Vlisco's designs to become a staple of the brand. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. 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. with Ivan Kanapathy, Bonny Lin and Stephen S. Roach Many Muslims and Christians may also intertwine their beliefs with more unorthodox indigenous ones. Annual Lecture on China: Frayed RelationsThe United States and China, Virtual Event Smiling and showing sincere pleasure at meeting the person is important. This number includes 510 living languages, 2 second languages without native speakers and 9 extinct languages. In return, most senior citizens have the responsibility to make various decisions on behalf of ethnic groups. 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 women wear their hair in native styles such as Suku. In spite of all these different languages, English is widely spoken around the country. In cities like, Lagos and Port Harcourt traffic is very bad, and it takes skillful scheduling to avoid getting caught in it. [47] They immigrated to West Africa from the Nile Valley during antiquity. If you're looking for expert help and advice on how to work effectively with Nigerians, then this is what we do! For this reason, newborns are regarded with joy and pride as they are the future. The Yoruba culture emphasizes respect for elders which is why ladies kneel and men prostrate to greet their elders. In a social situation, they are greeted and served first. Make a point of studying any business card you receive before putting it into a business card holder. Silk (called tsamiya in Hausa, sanyan in Yoruba, and akpa-obubu in Igbo) is also used. The dry, open grasslands of the savanna make cereal farming and herding a way of life for the Hausa and At Ramadan, it is customary for Muslims to give gifts of food and fruit. If the information has changed, have new cards printed. 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. Present and receive business cards with two hands or the right hand, never with the left. English as a first language, however, remains an exclusive preserve of a small minority of the country's urban elite, and is not spoken at all in some rural areas. Nigerians typically hold a primary position of employment but are always on the lookout for other opportunities to generate supplemental income. It is used for keeping records of important events, history and culture. Lagos, Nigerias former capital, is also the countrys most popular city and is located along the coast in the southwest region. Some of their native clothing materials include Aso-oke or Ofi and Adire. Tags: Importance Of Culture In Nigeria,Types Of Culture In Nigeria. Things Fall Apart,[61] by Chinua Achebe, is an important book in African literature. by Lindsay Maizland [82] Perhaps the most popular fabric used in Nigerian fashion is Dutch wax print, produced in the Netherlands. Nigeria has the largest population on the continent and the third-largest manufacturing sector. Here are a few commonly used saying in Nigeria that are worth noting: Nigeria is a very diverse and dynamic country. The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. [46], Language and cultural studies suggest that they are related to the founders of the Great Nile Valley civilization complex (and possibly the lake Chad complex). The three main ethnic groups are the Yorubas of South Western Nigeria, the Igbos of Eastern Nigeria and the Hausa/Fulani ethnic group which dominates the North. A Hausa farmer. The architectural mastery of the Hausas is perhaps one of the least known buys the most beautiful of the medieval age. Nigerian food is mostly made up of meals that are high in carbohydrates, such as cassavas, rice, maize, yams, and plenty of vegetables. with Jeremi Suri You are also agreeing to our. A Nigerian generally waits for the woman to extend her hand. Therefore, culture serves as a social memory for mankind. Annual Lecture on China. masterpiece of the oral tradition of Humanity, all of whom have been titled chiefs of various ethnic groups, Learn how and when to remove this template message, "Nigerian cultural values are under threat, Toyin Falola, US scholar, warns", "Culture Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria", "Culture Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Korea", "Nigeria: most common languages spoken at home 2020", "There are 27 languages close to extinction in Nigeria", "Igbos, Yorubas have historical ties - Ooni of Ife", "Nigeria: The politics of religion in a transitional society, By Rotimi Akeredolu", "Major tribes in Nigeria and their states with all the details", "Full list of all 371 tribes in Nigeria, states where they originate", "Tooth Dyeing Tradition among the Kanuri Speaking People of Borno, Nigeria", "Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kaduna and Enugu: Tale of four cities The Nation Newspaper", "Fulani | People, Religion, & Nigeria | Britannica", "Islam has a small presence in Nigeria's Igbo region: what a new Quran translation offers", "Chrislam: Defying Nigeria's Religious Boundaries", "The Oba of Benin Kingdom: A history of the monarchy", "Benin: The hallowed culture of one of the world's most ancient people", "Fulani and Hausa: What's the difference? Other Nigerian artists include the Nsukka group, formed at the University of Nigeria at Nsukka in the early 1970s, consisting of Uche Okeke, Chike Aniakor, Obiora Udechukwu, El Anatsui, Tayo Adenaike, Ada Udechukwu, and Olu Oguibe. The Yoruba often use humour to prevent boredom during long meetings or serious discussions. [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. [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. [33][34], The Hausas, on the other hand, are said to be very good merchants. Presently, Nigerias religious landscape is generally dominated by Christianity in the South and Islam in the North. The Yoruba people eventually formed many kingdoms of various different sizes, each of which was centered on a capital city or town and that was being ruled by a hereditary king known as an oba. 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. Nigeria is the seventh-most populous country in the world, home to more than 200 million people. The Igbo people share linguistic ties with their neighbours the Bini, Igala, Yoruba, and Idoma, with whom it is believed they were closely related until five to six thousand years ago. Families gather to celebrate births and weddings. They are fond of the expression, "When Nigeria sneezes, the rest of the African nations (with the exception of South Africa) catch cold.". In cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt traffic is very bad, and it takes skillful scheduling to avoid getting caught in it. 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. Other forms of traditional food include fufu, eba, okra, egusi, and ogbono. In addition, Nigeria is home to an influential music scene, notably Afrobeat, which combines West African music styles with American funk and jazz. Sometimes even consumer products are marketed by focusing on a higher being. Photo by Ayoola Salako on Unsplash. Regardless of the countrys developmental struggles, Nigerians enjoy interacting with their community. Order via the button below to receive your Nigeria Insight in seconds or read more here before buying. This attention comes after increased international consumption of Nigerias hugely popular film industry, Nollywood, which is already well-established across the African continent. Some of these festivals include Odun Olojo, Iwude, and Osun-Osogbo amongst many others. Igbos are overwhelming Christians of Catholic extraction although a minority of them practice other religions such as Islam, Judaism, and the traditional Igbo religion. The principal exports are palm oil and palm kernels. According to the FIFA World Rankings, Nigeria ranks 31st and holds the second-highest place among the African nations behind Senegal (20th). The yams can be mashed or fried in oil. Wole Soyinka, who won the 1986 Nobel Prize for Literature, was the first Black African to receive the award. Click here to learn more about our customized cultural training. In recent time, the styles have evolved to more contemporary designs. They may raise their voices even more and become emotionally excited when they feel passionately about a topic. [42][43], The Ijaw people are said to be a collection of people that are native to the Niger Delta area in Nigeria. The men sometimes also add a cap called Fula to their dressing. Any attempt to bypass this protocol will hamper your business success. The first wedding is traditional, the second one being in a court, while the third is in the church or the mosque. Check your inbox to be the first to know the hottest news. [44] With a population of over ten million, the Ijaws are arguably the most populous tribe inhabiting the Niger Delta section and arguably the fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria occupying about 10% of Nigeria's population. February 1, 2023 The Bini people are closely related to several other ethnic groups that usually speak Edoid languages, for example the Esan, however it is important to address the fact that the name "Benin" (and "Bini") is a Portuguese corruption, which came from the word "Ubinu", which came into use during the reign of Oba Ewuare the Great, c. 1440. It is basically what makes a person human. 'Odinana', as the immutable customary rites and traditions of the Igbo world, is enduring and cuts across indigenous Igbo people, while 'omenana' is rather relative from one section of the Igbo to the other. Kanuri, Fulani, and Hausa peoples are a majority in the north region of Nigeria. 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. Global Climate Agreements: Successes and Failures, Backgrounder Gari (ground cassava), iyan (yam paste), or plantains accompany the soup. 1. Social standing and recognition is achieved through extended families. While many artists still work in these traditions, more-contemporary artists, who combine African and Western traditions, also abound. To read more about the Nigerian management style, click here. In some of Nigeria's northern states, polygamy is legal and men may marry several wives. The people of ancient Nigeria were able to make their own weapons. This then ended up playing a significant role in the social life and culture of the Hausa people. In Igboland, both men and women tie wrappers. Nigeria's rich cultural heritage boasts of huge eclectic and colourful festivals that are full of rhythm, brilliant colours, fun and great pace. [79], Other traditional cultural expressions are found in the various masquerades of Nigeria, such as the Eyo masquerades of Lagos, the Ekpe and Ekpo masquerades of the Efik/Ibibio/Annang/Igbo peoples of coastal southeastern Nigeria, and the Northern masquerades of the Bini. Several things go into greeting an elder in Nigeria, including ethnic background and gender. The Igbo ethnic group, of which I belonged to, are mostly christian. 4. In the article, author Adenike Olanrewaju describes the emergence of publications Genevieve Magazine, Exquisite Magazine, Todays Woman, and Glam Africa. Hausa/Fulani ethnic group is made up of two hitherto different ethnic groups that have now intermixed to the extent that they are regarded as one inseparable ethnic nation. The culture of Nigeria is shaped by Nigeria's multiple ethnic groups. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020). 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. This policy document defined culture as " the totality of the way of life evolved by a people in their attempt to meet the challenges in their environment which gives order and meaning to their social, political, economic, aesthetic and religious . There is a large variety of linguistic and ethnic groups in the country. The Ogbunike Caves are found in a valley in the tropical forest of southeast Nigeria, in Anambra State. Nigeria boasts of 300 or more different ethnic groups. It is said that it was at Ife that the gods descended from heaven and created the world. Unfortunately, in our country, some subcultures oppose each other which lead to the spread of cultural differences in Nigeria. The way of life of any society involves a number of areas (labour, politics, economics, ethics, aesthetics, law, family, religion, etc). Various other minor ethnic groups make up the rest of the country. With nearly 200 million inhabitants, it also happens to be one of the world's largest countries by population. In outlook, education, dress and taste, the Hausa people and their counterparts the Fulani have become a significant part of the Islamic world, this said influence still remains until the current day. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. 6. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. 2022 All Rights Reserved. 8 major groups account for 90% of Nigeria's population: Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Ijaw, Kanuri, Fulani, Ibibio, Tiv. Its an active process, a lifestyle of people which is constantly growing, evolving and mutating. From the farmers in the rural areas to the bankers in the city, work is a central and important part of daily life in Nigeria. In addition, the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, and Naija Invest Gateway, provide real-time information on the Nigerian business culture. February 13, 2023 Pidgin English is a creolized form of the language. February 22, 2023 Working hours in the north often vary from those in the south so that Muslims do not work on their holy day, which is Friday. LESSON 2 - IMPORTANCE/USES OF ART. Yam is the main staple food of the Igbos which is why they celebrate the new yam festival every year when the harvesting of yam starts. This work is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) License. The word "Ubinu" was later corrupted to Bini by a number of mixed ethnicities staying together at the centre, and it was then further corrupted to Benin around the year 1485 at the time when the Portuguese people started making trade relations with Oba Ewuare.[28][29]. 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 . 5. 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. More than 250 ethnic groups can be found in Nigeria today, each of which has its own traditions and customs. Along with South Africa, Nigeria is considered a super-power in the African continent and consequently Nigerians are generally proud of their country. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. They are concentrated in the southwestern section of Nigeria, much smaller and scattered groups of Yoruba people live in Benin and northern Togo and they are numbered to be more than 20 million at the turn of the 21st century. Age is believed to be the main wisdom of the nation. The Igbo political system isnt strong which explains why they are not a politically strong unit within the Nigerian system. The first wedding is traditional, the second one being in a court, while the third is in the church or the mosque. Culture regulates the behavior of a person in his family, school, at work, home, etc., by putting forward a system of prescriptions and prohibitions. You invest in security. 4) Lots of oil, little electricity. You will frequently see colleagues gathering at a restaurant or local watering hole for after-work drinks to discuss the latest news in business, politics, or tabloid gossip. The most important task for the government is to find ways to unite people, rather than divide them. monarchs who have received definite authority from the official government and are recognized by the laws of Nigeria),[58] the chiefs come in various ranks and are of varied kinds - some monarchs are so powerful that they influence political and religious life outside their immediate domains (the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife, for example), while in contrast many local families around the country install their eldest members as titled chiefs in order for them to provide them with what is an essentially titular leadership. When employees join a company, they are doing so in return for fair compensation, career development, and various benefits. You will gain an understanding of a number of key areas including: For those needing a more detailed and comprehensive overview of Nigeria we have published an expert Report on Nigerian Society, Culture & Business. Being the first to find a settlement in the Lower Niger and Niger Delta, it is possible that they may have started inhabiting this region as far back as 500 BC. Music is used to celebrate rulers and to accompany public assemblies, weddings and funerals, festivals, and storytelling. Another major Nigerian city is Port Harcourt. The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. Most weekdays. The most popular Yoruba manifestations of this custom are the Gelede masquerades.[80]. Nigerians will generally follow the agenda point by point and may want to consult with key stakeholders who will not be present prior to the meeting. 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. The larger number of families is because a higher number of children improves the social standing of a man. This is why gaining an understanding of Nigerian culture is so crucial to your business success in the Nigerian market. Shake hands at the beginning and end of meetings. [78], Traditional musicians use a number of diverse instruments, such as Gongon drums. Culturally, Nigeria is like a coat of many colours. The Igbo ethnic group most produce and trade in oil, cocoa and rubber. Address people initially by their academic, professional or honorific title and their surname. 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. Their traditional religion, Ifa, has been recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral tradition of Humanity.