Some of these festivals include Odun Olojo, Iwude, and Osun-Osogbo amongst many others. The eastern part of Nigeria is the home of the Igbos, who are mostly Christians. The Bini people are closely related to several other ethnic groups that usually speak Edoid languages, for example the Esan, however it is important to address the fact that the name "Benin" (and "Bini") is a Portuguese corruption, which came from the word "Ubinu", which came into use during the reign of Oba Ewuare the Great, c. 1440. Music and dance are integral to Nigerian culture, and each ethnic group has its own specialties. This is especially true when speaking their native language, although many of the same characteristics have been carried into their English language usage. Grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, sisters, brothers and in-laws all work as a unit through life.Family relationships are guided by hierarchy and seniority. Gifts should be given using the right hand only or both hands. 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. Therefore, old people are always granted respect. The official language of Nigeria, English, was chosen to facilitate the cultural and linguistic unity of the country post-colonization by the British. As a developing country, Nigeria faces challenges regarding its infrastructure. Check your inbox to be the first to know the hottest news. Prior to conducting business in a foreign country, understanding the countrys cultural landscape, people, beliefs, and cultural nuances are imperative. Gifts should be wrapped, although there are no cultural taboos concerning paper colour. According to the FIFA World Rankings, Nigeria ranks 31st and holds the second-highest place among the African nations behind Senegal (20th). The three main ethnic groups are the Yorubas of South Western Nigeria, the Igbos of Eastern Nigeria and the Hausa/Fulani ethnic group which dominates the North. You invest in security. Nigerian cities tend to be highly populated as many people flock to urban environments for better employment opportunities. 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. Movie theatres, showing mostly Indian and American films, are popular among the urban middle- and low-income groups. [59], Although chiefs have few official powers today, they are widely respected, and prominent monarchs are often courted to endorse politicians during elections in the hopes of them conferring legitimacy to their campaigns by way of doing so. Pidgin English is a creolized form of the language. Nigerians are generally, enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. 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. Photo by Nnaemeka Ugochukwu on Unsplash. Sometimes even consumer products are marketed by focusing on a higher being. 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 Here are 10 interesting facts about Nigeria: 1. It is a good idea to include any advanced university degree on your business card. Global Health Program, Higher Education Webinar: Teaching the History of American Democracy, Webinar Middle Eastern culture: Middle Eastern culture is a fascinating mixture of religious and traditional beliefs. Why the First 100 Hires are Crucial for Your Company's Culture People in urban regions of Nigeria dress in western style, the youth mainly wearing jeans and T-shirts. When a person becomes a member of the society, he accumulates knowledge about language, symbols, values, norms, customs and traditions of that environment. 56 Likes, 1 Comments - Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (@kccnigeria_) on Instagram: "Winners of the KCCN "Introduce Your Korea" Event 5 " ' " Never use the left hand only. The major Christian celebrations of Christmas and Easter are recognized as national holidays. The overwhelming majority, with the exception of Tiv, profess the Muslim religion. Lagos is a bustling city that has become a melting pot of Nigerian tribes. Protection of Cultural Heritage: The Nigerian experience The men sometimes also add a cap called Fula to their dressing. Meaning of Arts | Branches/Types of Art | Importance Uses of Art 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. Commonly referred to as the giant of Africa, Nigeria is highly populated and unlike any other African country. 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. The most important issue of cultural development is certainly the issue of creation of either national Nigerian, or affirmation of ethnic cultural identity. 4. Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. This article presents a high-level introduction to Nigeria's cultural heritage. 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). The constitution guarantees religious freedom. Ekiti Yoruba dancers wear head masks so heavy that they can do only processional dances. The Igbo people of Eastern Nigeria commonly called Ndi Igbo are a very cultural set of people. It also explores some of the challenges faced (legal and extralegal) in the protection of cultural heritage and discloses recent legal developments. The importance of culture in Nigeria cannot be overestimated. 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. [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. Be the first to get hottest news from our Editor-in-Chief, Check your email and confirm your subscription. 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. 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. Global Climate Agreements: Successes and Failures, Backgrounder Before looking at the importance and types of culture in Nigeria, its good to know the definition. Culturally, Nigeria is like a coat of many colours. 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. 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. Age is believed to be the main wisdom of the nation. Bushmeat, meat from wild game like antelope and duikers, is also popular. Notable musicians include King Sunny Ade, who performed in a style called juju that combines the sounds of several guitars, vocals, and talking drums; and the politically charged Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, whose music is characterized by short songs and extended instrumental pieces. The Igbo ethnic group, of which I belonged to, are mostly christian. 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. #1: A land of over 200 million smiles Home to over 200 million inhabitants, Nigeria has one of the largest populations of youth, and is the sixth most populous country in the world. Such social niceties go a long way since. Nigeria's culture rooted in fashion, film, music, and literature translates into . The Igbos are renowned for their strong use of proverbs. The arrival of the Fulani people into Hausaland brought about great changes in the land, which included the introduction of Islam. Prioritize employee satisfaction. 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. A complimentary cap called Fila may be added to the dressing. 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 traditionally nomadic Fulani can be found all over West and Central Africa. Nigerias religious affiliations have recently made it into international news due to active, militant Islamic groups. 4) Lots of oil, little electricity. Culture of Nigeria - history, people, clothing, traditions, women Nigeria has the largest population on the continent and the third-largest manufacturing sector. We live in a multi-faceted country. Their traditional religion, Ifa, has been recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral tradition of Humanity. 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. Its members amassed great wealth while serving as middlemen, and the preponderance of English names among them today is a testament to the trade names adopted by their ancestors at this time. Language is the most important way of mastering the national culture. Igbos are overwhelming Christians of Catholic extraction although a minority of them practice other religions such as Islam, Judaism, and the traditional Igbo religion. Historically, Nigerian fashion incorporated many different types of fabrics. Shared below is some helpful information about Nigerian culture. Some of the most prominent ethnic groups include the likes of the Fulani, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and Ijaw. You put your proverbial (and actual) money where your mouth is in the form of budget and staff . 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. Native religions in which people believe in deities, spirits and ancestor worship, are spread throughout the country. 5 importance of culture in nigeria food . 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. 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. Nigerians are generally enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. Its an active process, a lifestyle of people which is constantly growing, evolving and mutating. [57] Led by the Nigerian traditional rulers (i.e. Nigerian People And Culture - All You Need To Know. The ladies wear their hair in traditional styles and complement their looks with a lot of jewellery, ornaments, and paintings. Muslims observe Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, and the two Eids. They may smile to mask their true feelings, especially when disappointed or confused. 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 most important task for the government is to find ways to unite people, rather than divide them. Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. . Cultural Policy in Nigeria Nigerians celebrate several holidays throughout the year, including Independence Day (October 1), Workers Day (May 1), and various Christian and Islamic holidays. [online] Available at: https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/afghanistan-guide [Accessed ENTER DATE]. The architectural mastery of the Hausas is perhaps one of the least known buys the most beautiful of the medieval age. 2. Since then, Nigerian and African patterns, colour schemes, and motifs have been incorporated into Vlisco's designs to become a staple of the brand. Yorubas have a strong political system with the Oba at the helm of affairs. 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. ", "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. Shake hands at the beginning and end of meetings. 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. Dance for the Ubakala shows their value system, helps resolve conflicts, and also institutes change. 5 Warning Signs of a Negative Organizational Culture | Organimi 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. This is one of the tools used by the government to create a more conducive and secured environment. The mode of dressing of Yoruba males includes wearing Bubba and Sokoto and also a large flowing gown called Agbada. The people of this tribe are gifted sculptors. We're helping multinational clients adequately prepare to thrive in the African market. You may also find their tone slightly louder than elsewhere. 3. The headquarter of Yorubaland is Ile-life where they believe creation started. according to this 2013 Pew Research study. Being the first to find a settlement in the Lower Niger and Niger Delta, it is possible that they may have started inhabiting this region as far back as 500 BC. Nigerians prefer facial expressions that imply empathy and believe an indifferent facial expression indicates that a person is ignorant or obnoxious. Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. Culture. Culture helps to accumulates, control and organise the human experience. The country has over 50 languages and over 250 dialects and ethnic groups. In spite of all these different languages, English is widely spoken around the country. Different generations of Nigerians are closely connected due to their culture. The women wear their hair in native styles such as Suku. 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. 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. 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. 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. February 13, 2023 A company culture that prioritizes high employee satisfaction sets itself up for payoff in the form of higher employee motivation, lower turnover rates and . Nigeria - Daily life and social customs | Britannica Discover w. Nigerians prefer to develop personal relationships prior to conducting business. While that may be a lot of people, population . Nigeria is the most populous countries in Africa, and also amongst the top 20 most diverse countries in the world. It has the largest population in Africa and the land is endowed with vast quantities of natural resources. In cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt traffic is very bad, and it takes skillful scheduling to avoid getting caught in it. Wait until invited before moving to a first-name basis. Each tribe has different dishes that are unique to their culture. 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. The Importance of Cultural Competence in Healthcare: The Case of Nigeria 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. This port city is located in the oil-rich Niger Delta region and serves as the capital of Rivers State. Extended families are still the norm and are in fact the backbone of the social system. With improved learning and health, increased tolerance, and opportunities to come together with others, culture enhances our quality of life and increases overall well-being for both individuals and communities. THANKS FOR READING OUR GUIDE TO NIGERIA. When employees join a company, they are doing so in return for fair compensation, career development, and various benefits. Photo by Ayoola Salako on Unsplash. The Ijaws were originally known by this name (Oru); at least it was what their immediate neighbours assumed them to be. 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. The culture of Nigeria is shaped by Nigeria's multiple ethnic groups. 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). The Hausa and Fulani people live primarily in the North, the Igbo reside in the Southeast, and the Yoruba inhabit the Southwest. Renewing America, Backgrounder They can also be found in large numbers in Cameroon and other African countries. Due to the ethnic make-up of the country, communication styles vary. In a social situation, they are greeted and served first. [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). If you plan to work from an agenda, it is a good idea to send it in advance of the meeting. In masculine countries people "live in order to work", managers are expected to be decisive and assertive, the emphasis is on equity, competition and . Titles are important. 34 New House, 67-68 Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8JY, UK. Although Lagos is located in the southwest region of Nigeria, Lagos is a port city with an International Airport and is considered to be Nigerias center of commerce. Culture helps to accumulates, control and organise the human experience. 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. Any attempt to bypass this protocol will hamper your business success. They are fond of the expression, "When Nigeria sneezes, the rest of the African nations (with the exception of South Africa) catch cold.". 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. For example, the cassavas can be ground up and the flour used to make a delicious and inexpensive porridge. Nigerians living in the south of the country tend to speak more directly.