However, none of the states in southern Nigeria allow this practice. by Olivia Angelino, Thomas J. Bollyky, Elle Ruggiero and Isabella Turilli Food is an important part of Nigerian life. It has the largest population in Africa and the land is endowed with vast quantities of natural resources. [81] Southern Nigerian women choose to wear western-style clothing. 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. It explores what is meant by the term 'cultural heritage', while providing examples of same in Nigeria. [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 importance of culture in Nigeria cannot be overestimated. Prioritize employee satisfaction. However, cultural differences should be perceived as wealth, not an obstacle. 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. 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. Nigerian literature and its emerging figures were themselves the subject of a Times piece in November 2017. Food and eating food is a universal experience, an element of common ground in terms of . 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 . Nigeria is a hierarchical society. 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. 4) Lots of oil, little electricity. This article presents a high-level introduction to Nigeria's cultural heritage. '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. The fundamental issue here is what motivates people, wanting to be the best (masculine) or liking what you do (feminine). Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. The Hausa, who do not consider dancing to be an art, divide their dances into the categories of social dancing and ceremonial borii dances. They may smile to mask their true feelings, especially when disappointed or confused. Many dishes are flavoured with onions, palm oil, and chilies. The Kanuri people[12] are located in the northeast part of Nigeria, the Tiv people[13] of north central and the Efik-Ibibio[14] are in the south south. In addition, they are also very good porters, weavers, and metalsmiths. Music and art are important aspects of everyday life in the Hausa/Fulani and they are well known for the Dubar celebration. Nigerias culture rooted in fashion, film, music, and literature translates into enhanced international prestige. Any disagreement between members will be interpreted as meaning that you are not relaying the entire story and that they should proceed cautiously. The eastern part of Nigeria is the home of the Igbos, who are mostly Christians. 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 yams can be mashed or fried in oil. In fact, over 250 languages and dialects are used across Nigerias 36 states. 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. 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. Accelerate your innovation and transformation with a fully integrated suite of capabilities that puts digital at the heart of everything. The way of life of any society involves a number of areas (labour, politics, economics, ethics, aesthetics, law, family, religion, etc). It is used for expressing one's feelings. Other symbols used to communicate and share stories are music, sculpture, dance, painting, theater etc. In return the most senior person has the responsibility to make decisions that are in the best interest of the group. Culture creates favorable opportunities for acquiring knowledge and physical development. Trading, local crafts, and wage labour also are important in the Igbo economy, and a high literacy rate has helped many Igbo to become civil servants and business entrepreneurs in the decades after Nigeria gained independence. The Ogbunike Caves are found in a valley in the tropical forest of southeast Nigeria, in Anambra State. Nigeria has three main environmental regions: savanna, tropical forests, and coastal wetlands. Any attempt to bypass this protocol will hamper your business success. This is especially true when speaking their native language, although many of the same characteristics have been carried into their English language usage. If invited to dinner at someones home then bring fruit, nuts or chocolates for the host. There is a large variety of linguistic and ethnic groups in the country. Every culture in Nigeria has unique diets, mode of dressing, mode of production, language, greetings, marriage, mode of socialization, political systems that could be annexed for development. 2. The Ijaw culture of the South has been influenced greatly by its location on the coast and the interaction with foreigners that it necessitated. 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. Even though most ethnic groups prefer to communicate in their own languages, English, being the official language, is widely used for education, business transactions and for official purposes. [42][43], The Ijaw people are said to be a collection of people that are native to the Niger Delta area in Nigeria. Nigerian contemporary music, which combines Western popular music with indigenous forms, has been exported throughout the world and has had wide influence (see also African popular music). [53] They eventually became the most urbanized Africans of precolonial times. This shows that reading culture is a prerequisite foracquisition of knowledge and skills needed by all people in a rapidly changing world and catalyst for participation in social, cultural, political and economic activities of the show more content. Muslims observe Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, and the two Eids. 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. If the information has changed, have new cards printed. They look for the rationale behind behaviour and attempt to understand the context. He is assisted by a team of elders known as Enjoyed (Chiefs). The Igbo ethnic group, of which I belonged to, are mostly christian. 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. It is used for commemoration. Make certain that your title is prominently displayed. Nigerian playwright and musician Hubert Ogunde, founder of Nigerias first professional theatrical company (the Ogunde Concert Party), incorporated traditional instruments into his musical dramas of the 1940s in an effort to revive interest in indigenous culture. The Igbos are renowned for their strong use of proverbs. Having worked in North America and Europe, attended business excursions in China, and even worked in neighboring West African countries, it is safe to say that Nigeria definitely has a unique culture and way of life. Below are some of the most notable things about Nigerian culture. Things Fall Apart,[61] by Chinua Achebe, is an important book in African literature. If you're looking for expert help and advice on how to work effectively with Nigerians, then this is what we do! The oldest person in a group is revered and honoured. The Yoruba culture is rich and unique drawing comparison with no other culture around. These environmental regions greatly affect the cultures of the people who live there. In literature, Chinua Achebe, Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, and, more recently, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have significant readership in the United States. PLEASE SHARE IT IF YOU FOUND IT USEFUL! The most important issue of cultural development is certainly the issue of creation of either national Nigerian, or affirmation of ethnic cultural identity. 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. The major Christian celebrations of Christmas and Easter are recognized as national holidays. [56], Ever since the country's earliest centralization - under the Nokites at a time contemporaneous to the birth of Jesus Christ - Nigeria has been ruled by a class of titled potentates that are known as chiefs. According to the book, which discussed generally about African American culture which Nigeria may belong. In addition, Nigeria is home to an influential music scene, notably Afrobeat, which combines West African music styles with American funk and jazz. This overview of Nigerian culture has, hopefully, provided you with the insight you need to ensure the successful expansion of your business, as a new entrant in the Nigerian market. Culture helps to accumulates, control and organise the human experience. 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. Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. [31] The Fulani practice the art of whipping a suitor before giving his bride to him as parts of their marriage obligation, this particular obligation has helped to increase the practice of monogamy among themselves and it is called sharo. Culture. Things arent perfect, but Im grateful for what I have., Factors to be Aware of When Visiting Nigeria for Business. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. The oldest person in a group is revered and honoured. Nigerians celebrate several holidays throughout the year, including Independence Day (October 1), Workers Day (May 1), and various Christian and Islamic holidays. Smiling and showing sincere pleasure at meeting the person is important. It is richer than all other West African nations and holds considerable power. The country also has the largest agricultural output and the highest number of cattle. Renewing America, Backgrounder Quiz. To read more about the Nigerian management style, click here. C.V. Starr & Co. As stated above, the three most influential ethnic group in Nigeria are Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa. [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. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. 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. The Yoruba language is pleasing to the ear as it places a lot of emphasis on intonation. They are well known for their energetic dance steps, colourful attires, and masquerades. After reading this article you will find out why. The official language of Nigeria, English, was chosen to facilitate the cultural and linguistic unity of the country post-colonization by the British. The Yoruba often use humour to prevent boredom during long meetings or serious discussions. Music is used to celebrate rulers and to accompany public assemblies, weddings and funerals, festivals, and storytelling. The women wear wrappers and shirts and cover their heads with hijabs (veils).[89]. Team members should present a united front at meetings. 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. In fact, a businesss success as a new entrant in a market often hinges on the understanding of the cultural landscape of the country in question. Nigerian Food Culture and Customs: Three Yorb Sayings on It. They have been able to preserve their cultural practices over time as a result of their strong native system of government. They tend to examine behaviour in its total context, not merely what they have observed. [88] Hausa men wear barbarigas or kaftans (long flowing gowns) with tall decorated hats. Age and position earns, even demands, respect. This group is predominantly Muslim as Islam was introduced into Nigeria by the Fulanis. Ethnically, the population of the country is estimated to be made up of 29% Hausa/Fulani, the Yorubas make up 21% while the Igbos are believed to be about 18% of the entire population. You invest in security. Nigeria is blessed with over 250 ethnic groups with noticeable cultural differences among them. [76], Nigeria is known for its many traditional dishes. 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. Several things go into greeting an elder in Nigeria, including ethnic background and gender. 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. with Jeremi Suri Culture unites people, integrates them, and ensures their strength as a community. Therefore, understanding Nigerian culture and way of life can seem like a daunting task, however, gaining this understanding will help you develop a robust action plan to build your business in the region. January 31, 2022, How Tobacco Laws Could Help Close the Racial Gap on Cancer, Interactive [47] They immigrated to West Africa from the Nile Valley during antiquity. [52] The Yoruba people are believed to have migrated from the east to their present lands west of the lower Niger River more than a millennium ago. Beans and root vegetables are ubiquitous. Nigerian traditions are wide and vary in the different cultures. "[67] Nigeria has other notable writers of English language literature. In return, most senior citizens have the responsibility to make various decisions on behalf of ethnic groups. 4. The Great Wall of Benin was a great structural and architectural piece that was way ahead of time and stood to protect the ancient Benin kingdom. The most popular Yoruba manifestations of this custom are the Gelede masquerades.[80]. Women wear long flowing robes and headscarves made by local makers who dye and weave the fabric locally. Extended families are still the norm and are in fact the backbone of the social system. Since then, Nigerian and African patterns, colour schemes, and motifs have been incorporated into Vlisco's designs to become a staple of the brand. 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. In some of Nigeria's northern states, polygamy is legal and men may marry several wives. Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. 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. For men the loose-fitting shirt goes down to halfway down the thigh. The Igbo people of Eastern Nigeria commonly called Ndi Igbo are a very cultural set of people. Beautifully crafted sculptures of wood, brass, and terracotta are common things among the Yoruba. Photo by Oladimeji Odunsi on Unsplash, Catching a ride for the morning commute into work in Lagos. Families gather to celebrate births and weddings. Their logic is often contextual. The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. Unfortunately, in our country, some subcultures oppose each other which lead to the spread of cultural differences in Nigeria. According to the FIFA World Rankings, Nigeria ranks 31st and holds the second-highest place among the African nations behind Senegal (20th). Art is created serve many purposes, among these are: 1. [48][49], The Yoruba people are said to be one of the three largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, alongside the Igbo and the Hausa-Fulani peoples. By entering your email and clicking subscribe, you're agreeing to receive announcements from CFR about our products and services, as well as invitations to CFR events. The singer and social activist Fela Kuti was instrumental in Nigeria's musical development. Gifts are not always opened when received. Nigeria is the most populous African country, and also amongst the top 10 most populous countries in the world with approximately 195 million people. In other words, this is to say that, culture in its simple meaning can be the way of life . It is used for decoration and beautification. 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. You put your proverbial (and actual) money where your mouth is in the form of budget and staff . The Hausa/Fulani people are known for their unique cultural practices most of which have stood the test of time. Nigeria is the seventh-most populous country in the world, home to more than 200 million people. At one time the Edo of the kingdom of Benin distinguished between urban music that was performed at the palace and less complex music that was played in rural areas. Movie theatres, showing mostly Indian and American films, are popular among the urban middle- and low-income groups. Their chiefs are therefore monarchs and titled individuals, with most of the latter group making up the membership of the Ogboni secret society. Nigeria has the largest population on the continent and the third-largest manufacturing sector. Wait for a woman to extend her hand first. The women tie wrappers called Abaya and wear blouses, head ties, shawls, and hijabs. It is common to gaze at the forehead or shoulders of someone they do not know well. It is basically what makes a person human. Yams are frequently eaten either fried in oil or pounded to make a mashed potato-like yam pottage.
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