The way of life of any society involves a number of areas (labour, politics, economics, ethics, aesthetics, law, family, religion, etc). 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. As in the rest of Africa, it is rude to rush the greeting process. 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. The importance of culture in Nigeria cannot be overestimated. In addition, the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, and Naija Invest Gateway, provide real-time information on the Nigerian business culture. Importance of culture Nigeria culture plays an important role in lives of separate individuals and the society as the whole. The most common greeting is a handshake with a warm, welcoming smile. 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. Sometimes even consumer products are marketed by focusing on a higher being. [62] With over eight million copies sold worldwide, it has been translated into 50 languages, making Achebe the most translated African writer of all time. In Nigeria,majority of parents are stack illiterates .They neither attend religious schools nor western type of institutions. Nigeria's vibrant popular culture reflects great changes in inherited traditions and adaptations of imported ones. Our culture determines the way we communicate with others. Another major Nigerian city is Port Harcourt. In the course of socialization the values, ideals, norms, patterns of behavior become a part of a person's self-awareness. To rush a greeting is extremely rude; spend time inquiring about the other persons general well-being. 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. You may also find their tone slightly louder than elsewhere. In the article, author Adenike Olanrewaju describes the emergence of publications Genevieve Magazine, Exquisite Magazine, Todays Woman, and Glam Africa. 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. Since the southern part of the country is closer to the coasts, the climate tends to be more humid and tropical, while the northern part of Nigeria tends to be more arid and dry. They may smile to mask their true feelings, especially when disappointed or confused. The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. Social standing and recognition is achieved through extended families. Culture regulates the behavior of a person in his family, school, at work, home, etc., by putting forward a system of prescriptions and prohibitions. 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. 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. Team members should present a united front at meetings. 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 then ended up playing a significant role in the social life and culture of the Hausa people. Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. 4) Lots of oil, little electricity. Several festivals are celebrated in Yorubaland yearly where the rich culture of the Yoruba people is displayed. They can also be found in large numbers in Cameroon and other African countries. Nigeria's culture rooted in fashion, film, music, and literature translates into . Nigerian traditions are wide and vary in the different cultures. The Ijaw culture of the South has been influenced greatly by its location on the coast and the interaction with foreigners that it necessitated. The Lalli or henna paintings and drawings are a very popular and indispensable part of their makeup. As its name indicates, Port Harcourt is another port city that also hosts an international airport. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. 2022 All Rights Reserved. 'Omenana' is man-made; it is easily changed and is adaptable. [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. Several things go into greeting an elder in Nigeria, including ethnic background and gender. In return, most senior citizens have the responsibility to make various decisions on behalf of ethnic groups. Adam Valavanis is a volunteer intern in the Africa program at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, DC. [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. 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. Christians predominantly live in the south of the country, whereas Muslims live predominantly in the north. 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. Nigeria is blessed with over 250 ethnic groups with noticeable cultural differences among them. In a social situation, they are greeted and served first. 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. Apart from the main three languages, the cultures of other tribes in Nigeria are equally unique and important. February 13, 2023 Meat is another delicacy that is prepared into something known as suya (a form of meat resembling barbecue meat) and wild meat (from giraffes and antelopes). In fact, over 250 languages and dialects are used across Nigerias 36 states. . The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. They are well known for their energetic dance steps, colourful attires, and masquerades. 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. 8 major groups account for 90% of Nigeria's population: Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Ijaw, Kanuri, Fulani, Ibibio, Tiv. As a developing country, Nigeria faces challenges regarding its infrastructure. 4. [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. According to the book, which discussed generally about African American culture which Nigeria may belong. Things arent perfect, but Im grateful for what I have., Factors to be Aware of When Visiting Nigeria for Business. The Igbo people of Eastern Nigeria commonly called Ndi Igbo are a very cultural set of people. Things Fall Apart,[61] by Chinua Achebe, is an important book in African literature. Their towns eventually became more and more populated and grew into the present-day cities of Oyo, Ile-Ife, Ilesha, Ibadan, Ilorin, Ijebu-Ode, Ikere-Ekiti, and others. 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. 2. It is used for decoration and beautification. 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. Many employ indirect eye contact to demonstrate their respect for the other person. Retrieved from https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/afghanistan-guide. For instance, "How you dey" means "How are you". Culturally, Nigeria is like a coat of many colours. The app is highly secured, licensed by CBN and insured by NDIC which makes your money safe even if anything goes wrong. [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). 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. Football (soccer) does a great job at bringing all Nigerians together to suppor their national team, known as the Super Eagles. The country has over 50 languages and over 250 dialects and 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 . Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. [86] The men wear buba (long shirt), sokoto (baggy trousers), agbada (flowing robe with wide sleeves) and fila (a hat). 5 importance of culture in nigeria food . Photo by Ayoola Salako on Unsplash. by Lindsay Maizland These figures are expected to confer subordinate titles upon men and women that are highly accomplished. 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. 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. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020). Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. Prioritize employee satisfaction. The yams can be mashed or fried in oil. Age is believed to confer wisdom so older people are granted respect. The Ogbunike Caves are found in a valley in the tropical forest of southeast Nigeria, in Anambra State. The Igbo political system isnt strong which explains why they are not a politically strong unit within the Nigerian system. There is a large variety of linguistic and ethnic groups in the country. Nigeria's most important. In recent time, the styles have evolved to more contemporary designs. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. Unique to Nigeria, the percentage of Christians to Muslims are nearly equal, with a small percentage being allocated to populations that practice indigenous religions. 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. Nigeria's rich cultural heritage boasts of huge eclectic and colourful festivals that are full of rhythm, brilliant colours, fun and great pace. Each musician organized a large band with a horn section, a variety of drummers, and many guitar players. Regardless of the countrys developmental struggles, Nigerians enjoy interacting with their community. We're helping multinational clients adequately prepare to thrive in the African market. 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. 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. Nigerian beans, quite different from green peas, are widely popular. These are also important aspects of our culture. 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. Commonly referred to as the giant of Africa, Nigeria is highly populated and unlike any other African country. Four Aboriginal spears taken by British explorer James Cook in 1770, thought to be some of the oldest surviving artifacts collected by any European from Australia, will be repatriated to Age is believed to confer wisdom so older people are granted respect. [74] Praised by Nigerians for the strength it gives, garri is "the number one staple carbohydrate food item in Nigeria",[75] Nigeria is the seventh-most populous country in the world, home to more than 200 million people. Descending into the valley is a lengthy walkway of 317 steps, which were constructed by the state government. Historically, Nigerian fashion incorporated many different types of fabrics. For this reason, newborns are regarded with joy and pride as they are the future. LESSON 2 - IMPORTANCE/USES OF ART. Many religions are followed in Nigeria. The Yoruba people live in the southwestern and north-central parts of Nigeria. The Benin people of present-day Edo state had a culture that amazed the colonial masters when they first got to the ancient Benin kingdom. [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. The terra-cotta figurines of the Nok are some of the earliest statues in existence from sub-Saharan Africa. Clearly, the system of culture is not only complex and diverse, but also very mobile. Ekiti Yoruba dancers wear head masks so heavy that they can do only processional dances. Titles are important. 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). Culture helps to accumulates, control and organise the human experience. 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. The population of Nigeria makes up 1/8 of the inhabitants of the African continent. Similarly a family's honour is influenced by the actions of its members. Families gather to celebrate births and weddings. 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. 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. However, none of the states in southern Nigeria allow this practice. 4. Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. There is also a rich nightlife, complete with live music events, and celebrations around personal milestones such as birthdays and weddings in Nigerias bustling cities. Nigerians typically hold a primary position of employment but are always on the lookout for other opportunities to generate supplemental income. It is a good idea to include any advanced university degree on your business card. Generally speaking, Nigerians are outgoing and friendly. On November 5, the New York Times ran on the first page of its business section a long piece on the emergence of luxury lifestyle publications in Nigeria. They have a strong culture of colourful masquerades that entertain people during festivals and other important functions. Nigeria is a hierarchical society. [53] They eventually became the most urbanized Africans of precolonial times. Grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, sisters, brothers and in-laws all work as a unit through life.Family relationships are guided by hierarchy and seniority. They may raise their voices even more and become emotionally excited when they feel passionately about a topic. Nigerians living in the south of the country tend to speak more directly. Violation of these laws will lead to certain sanctions that are established by the community and are supported by the power of public opinion. Both concepts, each an aspect of a single whole, aspire to protect and preserve the purity, sanctity and sacredness of the land and the people therein. You are already subscribed to our newsletter! In Nigeria, there are more than 500 languages that are spoken. The singer and social activist Fela Kuti was instrumental in Nigeria's musical development. [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. The Yorubas are fun-loving people and are known for their eye-catching, colourful and rhythmic dance steps. There is an indefinite number of cultures around the world. 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. 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 most popular Yoruba manifestations of this custom are the Gelede masquerades.[80]. 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. Movie theatres, showing mostly Indian and American films, are popular among the urban middle- and low-income groups. The Nigerian national football team,[73] nicknamed the "Super Eagles", is the national team of Nigeria, run by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). C.V. Starr & Co. The Hausa and Fulani people live primarily in the North, the Igbo reside in the Southeast, and the Yoruba inhabit the Southwest. At the same time, a harsh tone is considered unwelcoming and even hostile. Nigeria has a rich artistic heritage, including both traditional and contemporary art forms. The Dynastic Origins of Western Yorb Kingdoms", "In pictures: Country of kings, Nigeria's many monarchs", "Things Fall Apart | Summary, Themes, & Facts | Britannica", "Contemporary African Poetry: A Postcolonial Reading of Iquo Eke's Symphony of Becoming and Ifeanyi Nwaeboh's Stampede of Voiceless Ants", "Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie comes to terms with global fame", "From Achebe To Adichie: Top Ten Nigerian Authors", "Nollywood: The Influence of the Nigerian Movie Industry on African Culture", "Carbonhydrate intake Among Urbanized Adult Nigerians", "Nigerian Food: 16 Popular and Traditional Dishes to Try - Nomad Paradise", "Gelede | African ritual festival | Britannica", "distinctive African print fabrics | The true original dutch wax prints", "The Yoruba tribe of Nigeria and their clothes rich in colors and textures", "Interesting Facts About Nigerian People and Culture", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Culture_of_Nigeria&oldid=1141605451, Articles with unsourced statements from December 2022, Pages using multiple image with auto scaled images, Articles lacking in-text citations from December 2013, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 25 February 2023, at 22:16. Very direct eye contact may be interpreted as being intrusive unless there is a longstanding personal relationship. It's a complex system that transfers social experience from one generation to other and from era to era. Gari (ground cassava), iyan (yam paste), or plantains accompany the soup. The Igbo ethnic group, of which I belonged to, are mostly christian. This is especially true when speaking their native language, although many of the same characteristics have been carried into their English language usage. Other Nigerian men and women typically wear a traditional style called Buba. [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. 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. They look for the rationale behind behaviour and attempt to understand the context. 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. It has the largest population in Africa and the land is endowed with vast quantities of natural resources. However, pidgin English and indigenous languages are also spoken throughout the country. The architectural mastery of the Hausas is perhaps one of the least known buys the most beautiful of the medieval age. a powdered cassava grain that can be readily eaten as a meal and is quite inexpensive. Nigerian traditions are wide and vary in the different cultures. This helped spread them to some countries around Nigeria. 6. Most of the foods are spicy, especially in the west and the south. While many artists still work in these traditions, more-contemporary artists, who combine African and Western traditions, also abound.