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. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Nigeria is blessed with over 250 ethnic groups with noticeable cultural differences among them. Nigerian beans, quite different from green peas, are widely popular. 13 Things You Need to Know About Nigeria - Google Arts & Culture Accelerate your innovation and transformation with a fully integrated suite of capabilities that puts digital at the heart of everything. [40][41] Socially, the Igbos are led by monarchs who had limited power historically. 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. This attention comes after increased international consumption of Nigerias hugely popular film industry, Nollywood, which is already well-established across the African continent. Silk (called tsamiya in Hausa, sanyan in Yoruba, and akpa-obubu in Igbo) is also used. The constitution guarantees religious freedom. [35] They have monarchs, are known for celebrating the Hawan Sallah festival,[36] and are also followers of the religious teachings of Sheikh Usman dan Fodio. 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. Below are some of the most notable things about Nigerian culture. 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. 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. The architectural mastery of the Hausas is perhaps one of the least known buys the most beautiful of the medieval age. Other Nigerian men and women typically wear a traditional style called Buba. Sometimes even consumer products are marketed by focusing on a higher being. The overwhelming majority, with the exception of Tiv, profess the Muslim religion. The Igbo people of Eastern Nigeria commonly called Ndi Igbo are a very cultural set of people. Nigeria has the fastest growing economy in Africa and the highest GNP on the continent. Here are a few commonly used saying in Nigeria that are worth noting: Nigeria is a very diverse and dynamic country. 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. [5][6][7] Nigeria also has over 1150 dialects and ethnic groups. 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. Click here to learn more about our customized cultural training. Nigeria's rich cultural heritage boasts of huge eclectic and colourful festivals that are full of rhythm, brilliant colours, fun and great pace. The Hausa group (majority of them are Muslims) prevail in the northern region of Nigeria. Many Muslims and Christians may also intertwine their beliefs with more unorthodox indigenous ones. They tend to examine behaviour in its total context, not merely what they have observed. [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. Cotton has been used for over 500 years for fabric-making in Nigeria. The women wear their hair in native styles such as Suku. Fufu is so emblematic of Nigeria that it figures in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart, for example. Photo by Oladimeji Odunsi on Unsplash, Catching a ride for the morning commute into work in Lagos. Beans and root vegetables are ubiquitous. The most important issue of cultural development is certainly the issue of creation of either national Nigerian, or affirmation of ethnic cultural identity. Because of the movies, western influences such as music, casual dressing and methods of speaking are to be found all across Nigeria, even in the highly conservative north of the country.[72]. 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. Stay up to date on the latest insights we have to offer. The mode of dressing of Yoruba males includes wearing Bubba and Sokoto and also a large flowing gown called Agbada. Some of these festivals include Odun Olojo, Iwude, and Osun-Osogbo amongst many others. [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. At the time of independence, many hoped that as a huge, democratic country, Nigeria would provide Africa with a seat at the table among the traditional international powers. Wole Soyinka, who won the 1986 Nobel Prize for Literature, was the first Black African to receive the award. His personalized sound, dubbed Afrobeat, is now one of the continent's most widely recognised genres. In this country, individuals usually become a part of one or more ethnic groups in Nigeria. Nigeria is a hierarchical society. The number of languages currently estimated and catalogued in Nigeria is 521. The Yorubas are fun-loving people and are known for their eye-catching, colourful and rhythmic dance steps. After reading this article you will find out why. For instance, "How you dey" means "How are you". 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. Discover w. Culturally, Nigeria is like a coat of many colours. The people of this tribe are gifted sculptors. Generally speaking, Nigerians are outgoing and friendly. The Hausa and Fulani are in fact different tribes, but are often counted as one due to cultural similarity. Descending into the valley is a lengthy walkway of 317 steps, which were constructed by the state government. The Importance of Cultural Competence in Healthcare: The Case of Nigeria [78], Traditional musicians use a number of diverse instruments, such as Gongon drums. According to the FIFA World Rankings, Nigeria ranks 31st and holds the second-highest place among the African nations behind Senegal (20th). As stated above, the three most influential ethnic group in Nigeria are Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa. February 13, 2023 The country has over 50 languages and over 250 dialects and ethnic groups. Make a point of studying any business card you receive before putting it into a business card holder. Prioritize employee satisfaction. The traditional Yoruba kingships still survive, but with only a hint of their former political power. Observant Muslims will not generally shake hands with members of the opposite sex. The Palm Wine Drinkard, a popular novel by Amos Tutuola, was written in it. Artefacts stolen from Benin sit on shelves of many foreign museums and in the private homes of foreigners. In Nigeria,majority of parents are stack illiterates .They neither attend religious schools nor western type of institutions. Nigeria - Geography Our culture determines the way we communicate with others. Nigeria is the most populous countries in Africa, and also amongst the top 20 most diverse countries in the world according to this 2013 Pew Research study. The oldest person in a group is revered and honoured. Friends may address each other in a variety of ways: the title and the first name, the first name alone, the surname alone, or a nickname. PLEASE SHARE IT IF YOU FOUND IT USEFUL! 8 major groups account for 90% of Nigeria's population: Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Ijaw, Kanuri, Fulani, Ibibio, Tiv. In Nigeria, there are more than 500 languages that are spoken. Be the first to get hottest news from our Editor-in-Chief, Check your email and confirm your subscription. Therefore, culture serves as a social memory for mankind. For this reason, newborns are regarded with joy and pride as they are the future. You are already subscribed to our newsletter! 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. Importance Of Reading Culture In Nigeria - 4014 Words | 123 Help Me Nigerian food is mostly made up of meals that are high in carbohydrates, such as cassavas, rice, maize, yams, and plenty of vegetables. Try to avoid using hyperbole or making exaggerated claims when presenting a business case as Nigerians are naturally suspicious of a deal that sounds too good to be true. [84], Nigeria has over 250 ethnic groups[85] and as a result, a wide variety of traditional clothing styles. [32] The Fulani people are also nomadic in nature; this nomadic lifestyle spread them into virtually all of West Africa. There is an indefinite number of cultures around the world. 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 early mosques built by men of this tribe were bright and colourful often including intricate engravings and elaborate designs. Cultural conflicts can arise within large communities as a result. Nigerias religious affiliations have recently made it into international news due to active, militant Islamic groups. As a developing country, Nigeria faces challenges regarding its infrastructure. Age and position earns, even demands, respect. '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. 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. It is the sixth largest oil-producing nation and has a well-educated and industrious society. To read more about the Nigerian management style, click here. They can also be found in large numbers in Cameroon and other African countries. The Nigerian national football team,[73] nicknamed the "Super Eagles", is the national team of Nigeria, run by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The Igbo ethnic group, of which I belonged to, are mostly christian. Titles are important. In literature, Chinua Achebe, Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, and, more recently, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have significant readership in the United States. [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. 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. Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. Food is an important part of Nigerian life. by Lindsay Maizland 56 Likes, 1 Comments - Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (@kccnigeria_) on Instagram: "Winners of the KCCN "Introduce Your Korea" Event 5 " ' " In the course of socialization the values, ideals, norms, patterns of behavior become a part of a person's self-awareness. [37], The Igbo people, commonly and often referred to as Ibo people, are one of the largest ethnic groups to ever exist in Africa; they have a total population of about 20 million people. 'Odinana', on the contrary, is a code of life, handed down from Chukwu, God the Creator, to Eri, the patriarch of the Igbo race, to prevent chaos and confusion. Warning Sign 1: Little Investment Into People. In recent time, the styles have evolved to more contemporary designs. The Hausa/Fulani people are known for their unique cultural practices most of which have stood the test of time. 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 climate in Nigeria is typically hot, ranging from 28 38 degrees Celsius depending on the time of the year. It is used for decoration and beautification. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. The Efiks, Ibibios, Kanuris, Itsekiris, Ijaws, Igalas, Igedes, Idomas, Nupe etc all have beautiful cultures that stand them out and make them distinct and important in Nigeria. Some of the most prominent ethnic groups include the likes of the Fulani, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and Ijaw. The Yoruba language has several versions of it spoken by different units within this ethnic group. NIGERIA CULTURAL DIVERSITY. | World Scouting - scouts.org Their logic is often contextual. Shared below is some helpful information about Nigerian culture. Extended families are still the norm and are in fact the backbone of the social system. Culture unites people, integrates them, and ensures their strength as a community. Their chiefs are therefore monarchs and titled individuals, with most of the latter group making up the membership of the Ogboni secret society. In addition, they are also very good porters, weavers, and metalsmiths. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. In a social situation, they are greeted and served first. 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. Can culture exist without society? [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. It has become a common lingua franca as a result. Japanese culture places great value on respect, honor, discipline and personal growth. National Cultural Dimensions-Nigeria | Cultural Sensitivity in the The Okays make up 10%, Kanuri 4%, Ibibio 3.5% and Tiv 2.5%. Nigerias culture rooted in fashion, film, music, and literature translates into enhanced international prestige. [82] Perhaps the most popular fabric used in Nigerian fashion is Dutch wax print, produced in the Netherlands. This is why gaining an understanding of Nigerian culture is so crucial to your business success in the Nigerian market. This is one of the tools used by the government to create a more conducive and secured environment. Order via the button below to receive your Nigeria Insight in seconds or read more here before buying. 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. 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 . There are many ways that these meals are prepared. This then ended up playing a significant role in the social life and culture of the Hausa people. 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. Some of these dialects include Egba, Ekiti, Ijesha, Egun etc. They shape and regulate his behavior. [8][9][10][11] There are many other ethnic groups with sizeable populations across the different parts of the country. NIGERIAN PEOPLE And CULTURE - Facts & All You Need To Know The 41-page PDF document has been authored by one of our Nigeria country specialists and provides readers with much more detail that our free guide above. November 4, 2022 Igbo dominate in the south-central and southeastern parts of the country. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. You put your proverbial (and actual) money where your mouth is in the form of budget and staff . Some more examples of their traditional dishes are eba, pounded yam, iyan, fufu and soups like okra, ogbono and egusi. It is richer than all other West African nations and holds considerable power. Food: An Important Feature Of Our Cultural Identity 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. Such social niceties go a long way since. In other words, this is to say that, culture in its simple meaning can be the way of life . 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. Whether in urban or rural areas, the family is the central institution. Igbo | Culture, Lifestyle, & Facts | Britannica He is assisted by a team of elders known as Enjoyed (Chiefs). Basic features of culture in Nigeria - Legit.ng The yams can be mashed or fried in oil. They may smile to mask their true feelings, especially when disappointed or confused. Nigeria has three main environmental regions: savanna, tropical forests, and coastal wetlands. [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. These include Femi Osofisan,[68] whose first published novel, Kolera Kolej, was produced in 1975; Ben Okri, whose first work, The Famished Road, was published in 1991, and Buchi Emecheta, who wrote stories drawn from her personal experiences of gender inequity that promote viewing women through a single prism of the ability to marry and have children. The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. Minority ethnic groups live throughout the nation although higher concentrations of these groups live in the northern and the middle regions of Nigeria. [60], Nigeria is famous for its English language literature. A gift for the children is always a nice touch. The Hausa and Fulani people live primarily in the North, the Igbo reside in the Southeast, and the Yoruba inhabit the Southwest. Along with South Africa, Nigeria is considered a super-power in the African continent and consequently Nigerians are generally proud of their country. Always wait until invited before using someones first name. Retrieved from https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/afghanistan-guide. Although this militant activity concerns the entire nation, these groups primarily impact the northeast region of Nigeria. Meat is also popular and Nigerian suyaa barbecue-like roasted meatis a well-known delicacy. You invest in security. They are fond of the expression, "When Nigeria sneezes, the rest of the African nations (with the exception of South Africa) catch cold.". Yoruba people, for example, have different dishes like Amala, Ogbono, Moin Moin, Ofada Rice, and Efo Riro. Other cultures, such as the Igbo used to wear clothes only for modesty in past times, which is unlike other cultures where clothing has always been a symbol of status. Preserving Nigeria's cultural heritage - Daily Trust 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. The culture of the country is diverse and tends to differ from north to south. While that may be a lot of people, population . 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. Music and art are important aspects of everyday life in the Hausa/Fulani and they are well known for the Dubar celebration. Drinks include traditional brews like palm wine. Adam Valavanis is a volunteer intern in the Africa program at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, DC. In fact, over 250 languages and dialects are used across Nigerias 36 states. These are the three main tribes in Nigeria, followed closely by the Edo people (southwest region), tribes in the Delta region (southernmost region), and the Benue State (Middle Belt region). Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. The singer and social activist Fela Kuti was instrumental in Nigeria's musical development. We're helping multinational clients adequately prepare to thrive in the African market. January 31, 2022, How Tobacco Laws Could Help Close the Racial Gap on Cancer, Interactive However, cultural differences should be perceived as wealth, not an obstacle. 'Omenana' is man-made; it is easily changed and is adaptable. What is Nigeria's location and importance? - Internet Geography 1. The Igbos are renowned for their strong use of proverbs. For men the loose-fitting shirt goes down to halfway down the thigh. 968 Words4 Pages. Apart from the main three languages, the cultures of other tribes in Nigeria are equally unique and important. The way of life of any society involves a number of areas (labour, politics, economics, ethics, aesthetics, law, family, religion, etc). Nigerian traditions are wide and vary in the different cultures. Nigerian Culture, Customs, and Traditions - WorldAtlas Age and position earns, even demands, respect. Nigerians are generally, enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. The word "Ubinu" was used to depict and portray the royal administrative centre or capital proper of the kingdom, Edo. somethings gotta give I dont have what I need now, but I will have it eventually., I shouldnt complain because I should be grateful, Im fine. One way that Nigeria is unique is through its heritage. They make beautiful sculptures in honour of their gods and deities. 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. Since the 1990s the Nigerian movie industry, sometimes called "Nollywood", has emerged as a fast-growing cultural force all over Africa. Photo by Muhammadtaha Ibrahim Ma'aji on Unsplash. 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. 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 . 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. 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. Nigeria boasts of 300 or more different ethnic groups. Culture In Nigeria Essay. The import market for this fabric is dominated by the Dutch company Vlisco,[83] which has been selling its Dutch wax print fabric to Nigerians since the late 1800s, when the fabric was sold along the company's oceanic trading route to Indonesia. For example, it is typical for Nigerians to have three weddings, unless they are getting married to foreigners. Never write on your business card. Several festivals are celebrated in Yorubaland yearly where the rich culture of the Yoruba people is displayed. Nigeria is the most populous African country, and also amongst the top 10 most populous countries in the world with approximately 195 million people. The men sometimes also add a cap called Fula to their dressing. You must take the time to ask about the persons health, the health of their family, or other social niceties. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. The cave, has about 10 inner chambers and several tunnels, some of which are interlinked. Culture In Nigeria Essay - 968 Words | Internet Public Library 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. Nigerians' Growing Cultural Influence Around the World Nigeria culture plays an important role in lives of separate individuals and the society as the whole. The population of Nigeria makes up 1/8 of the inhabitants of the African continent. 5. Culture. Violation of these laws will lead to certain sanctions that are established by the community and are supported by the power of public opinion. Check your inbox to be the first to know the hottest news. A company culture that prioritizes high employee satisfaction sets itself up for payoff in the form of higher employee motivation, lower turnover rates and . 10 Interesting Facts About Nigeria - US News & World Report Each tribe has different dishes that are unique to their culture. February 1, 2023 Nigeria is a hierarchical society. Photo by Nnaemeka Ugochukwu on Unsplash. In return, most senior citizens have the responsibility to make various decisions on behalf of ethnic groups. 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. 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. These are also important aspects of our culture. 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. Therefore, if this is the first time you are meeting with a Nigerian company, you should expect to devote a decent period of time to getting to know people on a personal level. Many use gestures when communicating. 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 are predominantly of mixed Muslim and Christian backgrounds.The Yoruba make up about 21% of the country's population estimated to be over 225 million and about half of the Yoruba are Muslim, with the other half being Christian. Here are 10 interesting facts about Nigeria: 1. Any attempt to bypass this protocol will hamper your business success. 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. In masculine countries people "live in order to work", managers are expected to be decisive and assertive, the emphasis is on equity, competition and . The most popular Yoruba manifestations of this custom are the Gelede masquerades.[80].