Soups can be thickened by adding ground egusi (melon) seeds. Nigeria is the seventh-most populous country in the world, home to more than 200 million people. Order via the button below to receive your Nigeria Insight in seconds or read more here before buying. Many religions are followed in Nigeria. The Yoruba often use humour to prevent boredom during long meetings or serious discussions. Close friends and family members often kiss and hug when meeting. by Lindsay Maizland 2. Here are a few commonly used saying in Nigeria that are worth noting: Nigeria is a very diverse and dynamic country. [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. 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. 4. [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. You invest in security. The language they speak is called the Edo language. Dance also has many varieties: Ishan stilt dancers in colourful costumes twist themselves in the air; one Tiv dance, called ajo, features male dancers who work in pairs, and another involves teams of women who perform a dance called icough while composing songs about current events. 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. Observant Muslims will not generally shake hands with members of the opposite sex. Fashion is diverse and varies depending on the ethnic groups, culture, and religion. Nigeria has the largest population on the continent and the third-largest manufacturing sector. [54] Oyo developed in the medieval and early modern periods into the largest of the Yoruba kingdoms, while Ile-Ife still remained a town of very strong religious significance as the site of the earth's creation according to Yoruba mythology. 5. Nigerias culture rooted in fashion, film, music, and literature translates into enhanced international prestige. His personalized sound, dubbed Afrobeat, is now one of the continent's most widely recognised genres. The word "Ubinu" was used to depict and portray the royal administrative centre or capital proper of the kingdom, Edo. To read more about the Nigerian management style, click here. 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. Extended families are still the norm and are in fact the backbone of the social system. Some more examples of their traditional dishes are eba, pounded yam, iyan, fufu and soups like okra, ogbono and egusi. It is basically what makes a person human. One way that Nigeria is unique is through its heritage. a powdered cassava grain that can be readily eaten as a meal and is quite inexpensive. 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. 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. However, cultural differences should be perceived as wealth, not an obstacle. Nigerian Food Culture and Customs: Three Yorb Sayings on It. Nigerian food offers a rich blend of traditionally African carbohydrates such as yam and cassava as well as the vegetable soups with which they are often served. Japanese culture places great value on respect, honor, discipline and personal growth. As its name indicates, Port Harcourt is another port city that also hosts an international airport. Other groups worthy of mention are Ijaw, Edo, Itshekiri, Kanuri, Efik, and Tiv. They look for the rationale behind behaviour and attempt to understand the context. 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. They can also be found in large numbers in Cameroon and other African countries. Their origins are steeped in great traditions of religious obeisance, traditional games, folklore, dance and drama. They make beautiful sculptures in honour of their gods and deities. 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]. Commonly referred to as the giant of Africa, Nigeria is highly populated and unlike any other African country. Nigerians typically hold a primary position of employment but are always on the lookout for other opportunities to generate supplemental income. The women wear their hair in native styles such as Suku. Nigeria is the most populous African country, and also amongst the top 10 most populous countries in the world with approximately 195 million people. Their traditional religion, Ifa, has been recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral tradition of Humanity. Beans and root vegetables are ubiquitous. The importance of culture in Nigeria cannot be overestimated. The Igbos are renowned for their strong use of proverbs. [42][43], The Ijaw people are said to be a collection of people that are native to the Niger Delta area in Nigeria. 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. 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. Accelerate your innovation and transformation with a fully integrated suite of capabilities that puts digital at the heart of everything. A Nigerian generally waits for the woman to extend her hand. Things Fall Apart,[61] by Chinua Achebe, is an important book in African literature. by Lindsay Maizland According to the book, which discussed generally about African American culture which Nigeria may belong. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. The Igbo ethnic group, of which I belonged to, are mostly christian. 1. Nigeria has the fastest growing economy in Africa and the highest GNP on the continent. Each musician organized a large band with a horn section, a variety of drummers, and many guitar players. However In November 2015, Ministry of Culture and Tourism was later merged with ministry of information, which is now known as Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism. [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. The women tie wrappers called Abaya and wear blouses, head ties, shawls, and hijabs. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Yams are frequently eaten either fried in oil or pounded to make a mashed potato-like yam pottage. It is a good idea to maintain a polite and somewhat reserved manner until the person you are meeting drops some of his formality. Nigeria is blessed with over 250 ethnic groups with noticeable cultural differences among them. Shared below is some helpful information about Nigerian culture. 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. This is not a first name culture, although that may be changing with people under the age of 35. Business cards are exchanged without formal ritual. The Bini people[15][16] are most frequent in the region between Yorubaland and Igboland. 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. When a person becomes a member of the society, he accumulates knowledge about language, symbols, values, norms, customs and traditions of that environment. Nigeria is a democratic country whose federal government resides in the countrys capital, Abuja, which is located in the middle of the country. Food and eating food is a universal experience, an element of common ground in terms of . Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. A gift for the children is always a nice touch. Nigerians are generally enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. 1950 W. Corporate Way PMB 25615, Anaheim, CA 92801, USA.+44 0330 027 0207 or +1 (818) 532-6908, 34 New House, 67-68 Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8JY, UK.1950 W. Corporate Way PMB 25615, Anaheim, CA 92801, USA.+44 0330 027 0207+1 (818) 532-6908. [87] In the Igbo tradition, the men's cultural attire is Isiagu (a patterned shirt), which is worn with trousers and the traditional Igbo men's hat called Okpu Agwu. Presently, Nigerias religious landscape is generally dominated by Christianity in the South and Islam in the North. Social standing and recognition is achieved through extended families. A complimentary cap called Fila may be added to the dressing. Many use gestures when communicating. [74] Praised by Nigerians for the strength it gives, garri is "the number one staple carbohydrate food item in Nigeria",[75] Food is an important part of Nigerian life. After reading this article you will find out why. As in the rest of Africa, it is rude to rush the greeting process. [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). Weekly. Dance for the Ubakala shows their value system, helps resolve conflicts, and also institutes change. Present and receive business cards with two hands or the right hand, never with the left. 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. 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. This is one of the tools used by the government to create a more conducive and secured environment. [33][34], The Hausas, on the other hand, are said to be very good merchants. The Ijaw people are said by some to be the descendants of the autochthonous people of Africa known as the (H) ORU. Nigerian cities tend to be highly populated as many people flock to urban environments for better employment opportunities. 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. Nigeria has two seasons: rainy season, which occurs in April until September, and dry season, which is referred to as Harmattan. 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. Nigeria's most important. Lagos is a bustling city that has become a melting pot of Nigerian tribes. The country is often discussed in terms of its regions (i.e., North, Southeast, and Southwest) and its dominant tribes. Women wear long flowing robes and headscarves made by local makers who dye and weave the fabric locally. Nigerian literature is known throughout the world. 56 Likes, 1 Comments - Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (@kccnigeria_) on Instagram: "Winners of the KCCN "Introduce Your Korea" Event 5 " ' " Always wait until invited before using someones first name. 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. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. Expect the first few meetings to be somewhat formal as your Nigerian counterparts continue to become comfortable with you as a person. The arrival of the Fulani people into Hausaland brought about great changes in the land, which included the introduction of Islam. The Igbo political system isnt strong which explains why they are not a politically strong unit within the Nigerian system. 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. This helped spread them to some countries around Nigeria. In general, Nigerians start with the general idea and slowly move into the specific, often using a somewhat circuitous route. 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. With nearly 200 million inhabitants, it also happens to be one of the world's largest countries by population. Shake hands at the beginning and end of meetings. He is assisted by a team of elders known as Enjoyed (Chiefs). 1 Jan. 2020 https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/afghanistan-guide, Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020, January 1) Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. They may smile to mask their true feelings, especially when disappointed or confused. Gifts are not always opened when received. If invited to dinner at someones home then bring fruit, nuts or chocolates for the host. Nigeria is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country of almost 200 million people. In Nigeria,majority of parents are stack illiterates .They neither attend religious schools nor western type of institutions. [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. Therefore, foreigners who take the time to get to know the Nigerian as a person are considered friends and welcomed into a Nigerians inner circle of family and close friends.Nigerian communication can also be indirect and may rely on non-verbal cues. English serves as a common language, used mainly as a means to bridge the communication gaps stemming from the presence so many languages, as well as a way to reach out and connect with the global business community. Nigerians prefer facial expressions that imply empathy and believe an indifferent facial expression indicates that a person is ignorant or obnoxious. Culture is defined as the way of life of a group of people. Age is believed to be the main wisdom of the nation. The climate in Nigeria is typically hot, ranging from 28 38 degrees Celsius depending on the time of the year. While many artists still work in these traditions, more-contemporary artists, who combine African and Western traditions, also abound. The major native languages spoken in Nigeria represent three major families of African languages - the majority are Niger-Congo languages, such as Yoruba, Ibo, the Hausa language is Afro-Asiatic; and Kanuri, spoken in the northeast, primarily Borno State, is a member of the Nilo-Saharan family. Apart from culture, society does not have any other mechanisms with which to concentrate and gather the wealth of the experience that has been accumulated by previous generations. These are also important aspects of our culture. [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. 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. Traditional instruments include various types of flutes, trumpets, musical bows, xylophones, and wooden clappers, as well as many varieties of drums. Middle Eastern culture: Middle Eastern culture is a fascinating mixture of religious and traditional beliefs. 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. In spite of all these different languages, English is widely spoken around the country. Some of these festivals include Odun Olojo, Iwude, and Osun-Osogbo amongst many others. ", "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. The principal exports are palm oil and palm kernels. Men may place their left hand on the other persons shoulder while shaking hands. Nigeria is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country of almost 200 million people. Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. Nigeria itself is home to several textile industries that go towards clothing the Nigerian people. We're helping multinational clients adequately prepare to thrive in the African market. [88] Hausa men wear barbarigas or kaftans (long flowing gowns) with tall decorated hats. 5. In return, most senior citizens have the responsibility to make various decisions on behalf of ethnic groups. 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. In Nigeria, social etiquette transcends common pleasantries and is actually a statement of respect and upbringing. Nigeria has a rich artistic heritage, including both traditional and contemporary art forms. 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. For women, the loose-fitting blouse goes down a little below the waist. Culture helps to accumulates, control and organise the human experience. [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. 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. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Other Nigerian writers with a worldwide audience include Chinua Achebe, Buchi Emecheta, Flora Nwapa, Amos Tutuola, Gabriel Okara, Kole Omotoso, John Pepper Clark, Ben Okri, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Cultures and indigenous values must evolve bottom-up policies and approaches to growth and development in 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. Culture creates favorable opportunities for acquiring knowledge and physical development. According to Yoruba Mythology, this group of people believes that they are descendants of Oduduwa. Nigerians are generally, enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. 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. [32] The Fulani people are also nomadic in nature; this nomadic lifestyle spread them into virtually all of West Africa. Several things go into greeting an elder in Nigeria, including ethnic background and gender. 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. The most common greeting is a handshake with a warm, welcoming smile. according to this 2013 Pew Research study. For example, it is typical for Nigerians to have three weddings, unless they are getting married to foreigners. According to the FIFA World Rankings, Nigeria ranks 31st and holds the second-highest place among the African nations behind Senegal (20th). [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. by Olivia Angelino, Thomas J. Bollyky, Elle Ruggiero and Isabella Turilli 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. 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. Many Muslims and Christians may also intertwine their beliefs with more unorthodox indigenous ones. Photo by Ayoola Salako on Unsplash. Therefore, old people are always granted respect. If the information has changed, have new cards printed. If you're looking for expert help and advice on how to work effectively with Nigerians, then this is what we do! The Hausa/Fulani people are known for their unique cultural practices most of which have stood the test of time. 5. [39] Their traditional religion is known as Omenani/Omenala. Check your inbox to be the first to know the hottest news. The ladies wear their hair in traditional styles and complement their looks with a lot of jewellery, ornaments, and paintings. In fact, over 250 languages and dialects are used across Nigerias 36 states. The climate in Nigeria is typically hot, ranging from 28 38 degrees Celsius depending on the time of the year. [84], Nigeria has over 250 ethnic groups[85] and as a result, a wide variety of traditional clothing styles. The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. . 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. The women wear wrappers and shirts and cover their heads with hijabs (veils).[89]. The rationale behind these weddings is that the union needs to be recognized by religion, the law, and by tradition. Traditionally, cultures such as the Yoruba used to wear clothing such as gele (a cloth wrapped around the head by women), afbada (a robe for formal functions), and other forms of attire. The kora and the kakaki are also important. The way of life of any society involves a number of areas (labour, politics, economics, ethics, aesthetics, law, family, religion, etc). In a social situation, they are greeted and served first. Helon Habila, Sefi Atta , Flora Nwapa, Iquo DianaAbasi Eke,[69] Zaynab Alkali and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie,[70] among others, are notable Nigerian authors whose works are read widely within and outside the country.[71]. Michelle Gavin, Ebenezer Obadare, and other experts track political and security developments across sub-Saharan Africa. The mode of dressing of Yoruba males includes wearing Bubba and Sokoto and also a large flowing gown called Agbada. 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 an increasingly cosmopolitan elite, Olanrewaju writes, luxury brands are eager to establish firmer footholds there. Although all of these magazines discuss the latest fashion trends, some also choose to take on taboo issues such as drug abuse and domestic violence. The constitution guarantees religious freedom. Fufu is so emblematic of Nigeria that it figures in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart, for example. This is especially true when speaking their native language, although many of the same characteristics have been carried into their English language usage. Let's appreciate and preserve our culture and traditions and use them as vehicles towards our development, growth, and unity. Nigerian food is mostly made up of meals that are high in carbohydrates, such as cassavas, rice, maize, yams, and plenty of vegetables. It used for . It is a good idea to lower your eyes when meeting someone who is older or more senior. Yorubas have a strong political system with the Oba at the helm of affairs. Although this was a very long time ago, the Ijaws have, however, kept the ancient language and culture of the Orus. The fundamental issue here is what motivates people, wanting to be the best (masculine) or liking what you do (feminine). Annual Lecture on China. Cultural conflicts can arise within large communities as a result. Although the role of the extended family is diminishing somewhat in urban areas, there remains a strong tradition of mutual caring and responsibility among the members. The culture of Nigeria is shaped by Nigeria's multiple ethnic groups. 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 people of ancient Nigeria were able to make their own weapons. The Yorubas are a diverse group of people bound together by language, history, culture and a common sense of origin. As mentioned above, Nigeria is the most populous African country, and also amongst the top 10 most populous countries in the world with approximately 195 million people. [45] From a historical perspective, it is almost impossible to give a precise and accurate account as to when and where the Ijaws originated, numerous different accounts have been given by many historians regarding this issue but what is certain is that the Ijaws are one of the world's most ancient peoples. Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. This is why gaining an understanding of Nigerian culture is so crucial to your business success in the Nigerian market. Kingdoms and empires of precolonial Nigeria, Controversies surrounding the 2007 presidential election, Nigeria under Umaru Musa YarAdua and Goodluck Jonathan, The 2015 elections and electorate concerns, Recession, fight against corruption, and insecurity, Which Country Is Larger By Population? Nigeria is a hierarchical society. 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. With so many different cultures and regions, food can vary greatly. 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. The Yoruba language has several versions of it spoken by different units within this ethnic group. Native religions in which people believe in deities, spirits and ancestor worship, are spread throughout the country. An person's immersion in a culture is determined by his/her socialization, familiarity with cultural heritage, as well as the development of his individual abilities.All these are usually achieved in the process of upbringing and education. This is known as the Nze na Ozo title system. Culture In Nigeria Essay. Language is the most important way of mastering the national culture. Academic and Higher Education Webinars, C.V. Starr & Co.
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