Their religion, mode of dressing, food, marriage, and language are all unique. After reading this article you will find out why. [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. Drinks include traditional brews like palm wine. Team members should present a united front at meetings. 1. In a social situation, they are greeted and served first. Let's appreciate and preserve our culture and traditions and use them as vehicles towards our development, growth, and unity. 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. Since the 1990s the Nigerian movie industry, sometimes called "Nollywood", has emerged as a fast-growing cultural force all over Africa. 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. We're helping multinational clients adequately prepare to thrive in the African market. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. [32] The Fulani people are also nomadic in nature; this nomadic lifestyle spread them into virtually all of West Africa. Warning Sign 1: Little Investment Into People. 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. Culture is defined as the way of life of a group of people. Igbos are overwhelming Christians of Catholic extraction although a minority of them practice other religions such as Islam, Judaism, and the traditional Igbo religion. Soups can be thickened by adding ground egusi (melon) seeds. For instance, "How you dey" means "How are you". Wole Soyinka, who won the 1986 Nobel Prize for Literature, was the first Black African to receive the award. From the naturalistic statues produced at Ife to the bronzes made for the king of Benin, Nigerian artists have crafted art that is world famous. [74] Praised by Nigerians for the strength it gives, garri is "the number one staple carbohydrate food item in Nigeria",[75] 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. Close friends and family members often kiss and hug when meeting. Age and position earns, even demands, respect. [77], The music of Nigeria includes many kinds of folk and popular music, some of which are known worldwide. You put your proverbial (and actual) money where your mouth is in the form of budget and staff . 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. A high value on Performance Orientation means the culture would ideally highly encourage and reward improvement and excellence (GLOBE, 2004). [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. Although this was a very long time ago, the Ijaws have, however, kept the ancient language and culture of the Orus. They believe that embedding humour in their message guarantees that what they say is not readily forgotten. Culture - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria Photo by IITA (CC BY-NC 2.0). As a developing country, Nigeria faces challenges regarding its infrastructure. Nigerias culture is made up of several ethnic groups that speak 527 different languages. You are also agreeing to our. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. 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. The oldest person in a group is revered and honoured. 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. 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. Lots of Yoruba people still practice the traditional religion but a large number have embraced Christianity and Islam. 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. At the same time, a harsh tone is considered unwelcoming and even hostile. Nigerians are generally enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. according to this 2013 Pew Research study. Music is used to celebrate rulers and to accompany public assemblies, weddings and funerals, festivals, and storytelling. Commonly referred to as the giant of Africa, Nigeria is highly populated and unlike any other African country. A Hausa farmer. Some of their native clothing materials include Aso-oke or Ofi and Adire. 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. Cultures and indigenous values must evolve bottom-up policies and approaches to growth and development in the country. Preserving Nigeria's cultural heritage - Daily Trust Yorubas have a strong political system with the Oba at the helm of affairs. Music and art are important aspects of everyday life in the Hausa/Fulani and they are well known for the Dubar celebration. Each tribe has different dishes that are unique to their culture. The Hausa and Fulani people live primarily in the North, the Igbo reside in the Southeast, and the Yoruba inhabit the Southwest. In other words, this is to say that, culture in its simple meaning can be the way of life . Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. 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. Global Health Program, Higher Education Webinar: Teaching the History of American Democracy, Webinar July 2, 2022 Odiraa 0 Comments 36 states in nigeria and their ethnic groups, 5 importance of culture in nigeria, ethnic groups in nigeria and their culture, interesting facts about nigerian culture, nigerian culture and tradition . 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. People in urban regions of Nigeria dress in western style, the youth mainly wearing jeans and T-shirts. A company culture that prioritizes high employee satisfaction sets itself up for payoff in the form of higher employee motivation, lower turnover rates and . For example, the cassavas can be ground up and the flour used to make a delicious and inexpensive porridge. These figures are expected to confer subordinate titles upon men and women that are highly accomplished. 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. 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 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. 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. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020). Beans and root vegetables are ubiquitous. Christians predominantly live in the south of the country, whereas Muslims live predominantly in the north. Anywhere you find yourself in the Nigerian territory, you will meet a unique group of people who are set in their ways and would blow your mind away with their ways of life. Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. It has the largest population in Africa and the land is endowed with vast quantities of natural resources. By entering your email and clicking subscribe, you're agreeing to receive announcements from CFR about our products and services, as well as invitations to CFR events. It is said that it was at Ife that the gods descended from heaven and created the world. Nigerias vibrant popular culture reflects great changes in inherited traditions and adaptations of imported ones. They look for the rationale behind behaviour and attempt to understand the context. 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. Quiz. Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. [1][2] The country has 527 languages,[3][4] seven of which are extinct. [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. This may take as long as two hours for an initial meeting. Generally speaking, Nigerians are outgoing and friendly. 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. Challenges that include a variety of issues, such as inconsistent electricity, bad roads, and low-quality public transportation. 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. Any disagreement between members will be interpreted as meaning that you are not relaying the entire story and that they should proceed cautiously. Yams are frequently eaten either fried in oil or pounded to make a mashed potato-like yam pottage. The Yoruba culture emphasizes respect for elders which is why ladies kneel and men prostrate to greet their elders. 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. [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. Culture - Federal Ministry of Information and Culture A complimentary cap called Fila may be added to the dressing. The most popular Yoruba manifestations of this custom are the Gelede masquerades.[80]. Nigeria is a multiethnic country in Northern 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. Nigeria has two seasons: rainy season, which occurs in April until September, and dry season, which is referred to as Harmattan. It used for . Fermented palm products make a traditional liquor, palm wine, and also fermented cassava. '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. 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. It is the sixth largest oil-producing nation and has a well-educated and industrious society. Culture is defined as the way of life of a group of people. Many religions are followed in Nigeria. It is a good idea to include any advanced university degree on your business card. Global Climate Agreements: Successes and Failures, Backgrounder In addition, the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, and Naija Invest Gateway, provide real-time information on the Nigerian business culture. This is especially true when speaking their native language, although many of the same characteristics have been carried into their English language usage. Renewing America, Backgrounder The word "Ubinu" was used to depict and portray the royal administrative centre or capital proper of the kingdom, Edo. 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. 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. This is due to the large number of ethnic groups that exist in the country. It is used for keeping records of important events, history and culture. In some of Nigeria's northern states, polygamy is legal and men may marry several wives. Nigeria is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country of almost 200 million people. [33][34], The Hausas, on the other hand, are said to be very good merchants. Nigerian Culture, Customs, and Traditions - WorldAtlas They make beautiful sculptures in honour of their gods and deities. [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. 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]. Expect the first few meetings to be somewhat formal as your Nigerian counterparts continue to become comfortable with you as a person. Some of these dialects include Egba, Ekiti, Ijesha, Egun etc. The Yoruba often use humour to prevent boredom during long meetings or serious discussions. Here are a few commonly used saying in Nigeria that are worth noting: Nigeria is a very diverse and dynamic country. According to Yoruba Mythology, this group of people believes that they are descendants of Oduduwa. Although this militant activity concerns the entire nation, these groups primarily impact the northeast region of Nigeria. Language is the most important way of mastering the national culture. Other forms of traditional food include fufu, eba, okra, egusi, and ogbono. The women wear a puffed sleeved blouse, two wrappers and a headwrap. 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. Apart from the speakers of standard English, a large portion of the population, roughly a third, speaks Nigerian pidgin, which has a primarily English lexicon. [26][27] They are an ethnic group that is primarily found in Edo State, and spread across the Delta, Ondo, and Rivers states of Nigeria in smaller concentrations. They shape and regulate his behavior. In general, Nigerians start with the general idea and slowly move into the specific, often using a somewhat circuitous route. Photo by Nnaemeka Ugochukwu on Unsplash. 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 is the most populous countries in Africa, and also amongst the top 20 most diverse countries in the world. with Ivan Kanapathy, Bonny Lin and Stephen S. Roach The Hausa, who do not consider dancing to be an art, divide their dances into the categories of social dancing and ceremonial borii dances. by Lindsay Maizland [84], Nigeria has over 250 ethnic groups[85] and as a result, a wide variety of traditional clothing styles. Igbo dominate in the south-central and southeastern parts of the country. Some more examples of their traditional dishes are eba, pounded yam, iyan, fufu and soups like okra, ogbono and egusi. It is a good idea to lower your eyes when meeting someone who is older or more senior. In addition, they are also very good porters, weavers, and metalsmiths. Traditional instruments include various types of flutes, trumpets, musical bows, xylophones, and wooden clappers, as well as many varieties of drums. The terra-cotta figurines of the Nok are some of the earliest statues in existence from sub-Saharan Africa. 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. 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. [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. Smiling and showing sincere pleasure at meeting the person is important. Nigeria's vibrant popular culture reflects great changes in inherited traditions and adaptations of imported ones. Be the first to get hottest news from our Editor-in-Chief, Check your email and confirm your subscription. Photo by Oladimeji Odunsi on Unsplash, Catching a ride for the morning commute into work in Lagos. Nigeria scores 60 on this dimension and is thus a masculine society. January 31, 2022, How Tobacco Laws Could Help Close the Racial Gap on Cancer, Interactive Nigerian music is enjoyed throughout Africa. Make a point of studying any business card you receive before putting it into a business card holder. Culture unites people, integrates them, and ensures their strength as a community. Many dishes are flavoured with onions, palm oil, and chilies. What is real American culture? - coalitionbrewing.com 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]. However, none of the states in southern Nigeria allow this practice. 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. 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. 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. 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. They can also be found in large numbers in Cameroon and other African countries. Several things go into greeting an elder in Nigeria, including ethnic background and gender. Things Fall Apart,[61] by Chinua Achebe, is an important book in African literature. 5. Many Muslims and Christians may also intertwine their beliefs with more unorthodox indigenous ones. In the pre-colonial period, they controlled a powerful empire. Meat is also popular and Nigerian suyaa barbecue-like roasted meatis a well-known delicacy. However, pidgin English and indigenous languages are also spoken throughout the country. It is basically what makes a person human. Bushmeat, meat from wild game like antelope and duikers, is also popular. The country is often discussed in terms of its regions (i.e., North, Southeast, and Southwest) and its dominant tribes. Stay up to date on the latest insights we have to offer. The Hausa and Fulani ethnic groups are said to be one of the largest ethnic groupings in Nigeria, if not the largest, with a population of over 20 million people.The Hausa and Fulani live in the northern part of Nigeria. The Top 10 Heritage Sites in Nigeria - Culture Trip LESSON 2 - IMPORTANCE/USES OF ART. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. PLEASE SHARE IT IF YOU FOUND IT USEFUL! 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. The Hausa and Fulani are in fact different tribes, but are often counted as one due to cultural similarity. 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. [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. Each musician organized a large band with a horn section, a variety of drummers, and many guitar players. Nigerians typically hold a primary position of employment but are always on the lookout for other opportunities to generate supplemental income. It is used for decoration and beautification. Nigerians living in the south of the country tend to speak more directly. Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. 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 It is used for communication. The difference in the way we work, live and interact with each other is as a result of the culture we have come to be a part of. Working hours in the north often vary from those in the south so that Muslims do not work on their holy day, which is Friday. When employees join a company, they are doing so in return for fair compensation, career development, and various benefits. 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 fundamental issue here is what motivates people, wanting to be the best (masculine) or liking what you do (feminine). [76], Nigeria is known for its many traditional dishes. The women wear their hair in native styles such as Suku. 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. Art is created serve many purposes, among these are: 1. The country also has the largest agricultural output and the highest number of cattle. They are fond of the expression, "When Nigeria sneezes, the rest of the African nations (with the exception of South Africa) catch cold.". The women wear Iro and Buba and tie a complimentary headgear. 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. The number of languages currently estimated and catalogued in Nigeria is 521. Other groups worthy of mention are Ijaw, Edo, Itshekiri, Kanuri, Efik, and Tiv. The Igbo ethnic group most produce and trade in oil, cocoa and rubber. 4. Culture is that complex as it consists of belief, knowledge, art, law, morals, customs, traditions and any other capabilities and habits which is acquired by man as a member of the society (Edward B. Tylor 1871). 90 Nigerian Culture Facts That Shed Light On African Countries 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. 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. Native religions in which people believe in deities, spirits and ancestor worship, are spread throughout the country. Their chiefs are therefore monarchs and titled individuals, with most of the latter group making up the membership of the Ogboni secret society. However some of these states were conquered, taken over and re-established by the Fulani people which then led to the formation of a few other kingdoms such as Katagum, Hadejia and Gombe. Nigeria has a rich artistic heritage, including both traditional and contemporary art forms. T, HOW TO GET A LOCAL GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN IN NIGERIA, THE LARGEST SEAPORTS IN NIGERIA LISTS Things To Know About Them, PROBLEMS OF ETHNICITY IN NIGERIA AND SOLUTIONS.

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