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The official language of Nigeria, English, was chosen to facilitate the cultural and linguistic unity of the country post-colonization by the British. Igbo, Hausa, Kanuri, Fulani, Yoruba, Ijaw, Ibibio, and Tiv are some of the major groups that make up the maximum population of Nigeria. The traditional Yoruba kingships still survive, but with only a hint of their former political power. 968 Words4 Pages. 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. [53] They eventually became the most urbanized Africans of precolonial times. The most popular Yoruba manifestations of this custom are the Gelede masquerades.[80]. 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. [76], Nigeria is known for its many traditional dishes. It is used for keeping records of important events, history and culture. National Cultural Dimensions-Nigeria | Cultural Sensitivity in the Backed by a suite of sophisticated services and solutions, KPA brings in-depth insights, diverse experiences, and genuine care to every client engagement to deliver the results you need to exceed your set business goals. [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. Nigerians prefer to develop personal relationships prior to conducting business. It has become a common lingua franca as a result. Nigerians are generally enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. 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. 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. 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. . On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Photo by Oladimeji Odunsi on Unsplash, Catching a ride for the morning commute into work in Lagos. The Cultural Dimensions Of Nigeria's Cultural Dimension While many artists still work in these traditions, more-contemporary artists, who combine African and Western traditions, also abound. 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. For this reason, newborns are regarded with joy and pride as they are the future. 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. Due to the ethnic make-up of the country, communication styles vary. Always make time to share a tea with people you're doing business with. [33][34], The Hausas, on the other hand, are said to be very good merchants. Families gather to celebrate births and weddings. Gari (ground cassava), iyan (yam paste), or plantains accompany the soup. For men their traditional cap is called fila. November 4, 2022 90 Nigerian Culture Facts That Shed Light On African Countries 5 Warning Signs of a Negative Organizational Culture | Organimi 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. 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. However, cultural differences should be perceived as wealth, not an obstacle. Seafood, beef, poultry, and goat are the primary sources of protein. Very direct eye contact may be interpreted as being intrusive unless there is a longstanding personal relationship. Age is believed to be the main wisdom of the nation. The oldest person in a group is revered and honoured. PLEASE SHARE IT IF YOU FOUND IT USEFUL! 34 New House, 67-68 Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8JY, UK. Some of the most prominent ethnic groups include the likes of the Fulani, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and Ijaw. There is a large variety of linguistic and ethnic groups in the country. You are already subscribed to our newsletter! This ethnic group is well known for their colourful but modest dress due to their strong religious beliefs. 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 [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. Vast wealth has been generated by it, and it is currently the second-largest film industry in the world by output. Other symbols used to communicate and share stories are music, sculpture, dance, painting, theater etc. In return the most senior person has the responsibility to make decisions that are in the best interest of the group. The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. In Nigeria, social etiquette transcends common pleasantries and is actually a statement of respect and upbringing. . The Igbo political system isnt strong which explains why they are not a politically strong unit within the Nigerian system. 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. A little more than half of all Nigerians are of the Christian faith, while most of the rest are Islamic. You put your proverbial (and actual) money where your mouth is in the form of budget and staff . It also emphasizes the importance of nature, family and tradition. Therefore, old people are always granted respect. 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. [23], The Binis, also called the Edo people,[25] are people of the South South region of modern Nigeria; they are said to be around 3.8 million as of the 21st Century. Gifts should be wrapped, although there are no cultural taboos concerning paper colour. For example, it is typical for Nigerians to have three weddings, unless they are getting married to foreigners. Weekly. Like many other aspects of life, food is a deeply rooted expression of identity, values, and way of life. Maize is another crop that is commonly grown in Nigeria. Its an active process, a lifestyle of people which is constantly growing, evolving and mutating. This policy document defined culture as " the totality of the way of life evolved by a people in their attempt to meet the challenges in their environment which gives order and meaning to their social, political, economic, aesthetic and religious . This article presents a high-level introduction to Nigeria's cultural heritage. Academic and Higher Education Webinars, C.V. Starr & Co. 3 Best Alternative Digital Banks in Nigeria for Online Transaction. 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. The most important task for the government is to find ways to unite people, rather than divide them. 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. [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. In addition, the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, and Naija Invest Gateway, provide real-time information on the Nigerian business culture. Why the First 100 Hires are Crucial for Your Company's Culture THANKS FOR READING OUR GUIDE TO NIGERIA. 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. [32] The Fulani people are also nomadic in nature; this nomadic lifestyle spread them into virtually all of West Africa. It also explores some of the challenges faced (legal and extralegal) in the protection of cultural heritage and discloses recent legal developments. If you plan to work from an agenda, it is a good idea to send it in advance of the meeting. Culture is defined as the way of life of a group of people. A colonial explorer stole Aboriginal spears in 1770. Centuries later Preserving Nigeria's cultural heritage - Daily Trust What is Nigerian cultural heritage? - AdvertisingRow.com [47] They immigrated to West Africa from the Nile Valley during antiquity. As in the rest of Africa, it is rude to rush the greeting process. 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). [37], The Igbo people, commonly and often referred to as Ibo people, are one of the largest ethnic groups to ever exist in Africa; they have a total population of about 20 million people. Muslims observe Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, and the two Eids. Prior to conducting business in a foreign country, understanding the countrys cultural landscape, people, beliefs, and cultural nuances are imperative. Movie theatres, showing mostly Indian and American films, are popular among the urban middle- and low-income groups. Culture helps to accumulates, control and organise the human experience. 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. Fermented palm products make a traditional liquor, palm wine, and also fermented cassava. For example, it is typical for Nigerians to have three weddings, unless they are getting married to foreigners. The women wear Iro and Buba and tie a complimentary headgear. Gifts should be given using the right hand only or both hands. The way of life of any society involves a number of areas (labour, politics, economics, ethics, aesthetics, law, family, religion, etc). However, none of the states in southern Nigeria allow this practice. Food is an important part of Nigerian life. Therefore, it is a good idea to observe the situation carefully before determining what behaviour is appropriate. At the same time, there are some Nigerians who are extremely direct communicators and have no difficulty stating what is on their minds. This is especially true when speaking their native language, although many of the same characteristics have been carried into their English language usage. 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). This is due to the large number of ethnic groups that exist in 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. They are the most dispersed set of people in Nigeria as they can be found all over the country. 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. The Top 10 Heritage Sites in Nigeria - Culture Trip February 22, 2023 Nigerias religious affiliations have recently made it into international news due to active, militant Islamic groups. The dry, open grasslands of the savanna make cereal farming and herding a way of life for the Hausa and Nigeria is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country of almost 200 million people. The early mosques built by men of this tribe were bright and colourful often including intricate engravings and elaborate designs. It used for . Nigerias vibrant popular culture reflects great changes in inherited traditions and adaptations of imported ones. Kanuri, Fulani, Hausa, Tiv - are the most densely populated groups that live in the north. Nigerians living in the south of the country tend to speak more directly. It is used for communication. Nigeria has the largest population on the continent and the third-largest manufacturing sector. The climate in Nigeria is typically hot, ranging from 28 38 degrees Celsius depending on the time of the year. Nigeria - Daily life and social customs | Britannica [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. Cultural Policy in Nigeria Nigeria is the most populous countries in Africa, and also amongst the top 20 most diverse countries in the world according to this 2013 Pew Research study. The women tie wrappers called Abaya and wear blouses, head ties, shawls, and hijabs. [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. In the course of socialization the values, ideals, norms, patterns of behavior become a part of a person's self-awareness. It is the sixth largest oil-producing nation and has a well-educated and industrious society. Unfortunately, in our country, some subcultures oppose each other which lead to the spread of cultural differences in Nigeria. 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. In addition, they are also very good porters, weavers, and metalsmiths. With so many different cultures and regions, food can vary greatly. People in urban regions of Nigeria dress in western style, the youth mainly wearing jeans and T-shirts. Culture. Another major Nigerian city is Port Harcourt. Nigeria itself is home to several textile industries that go towards clothing the Nigerian people. The Yoruba people eventually formed many kingdoms of various different sizes, each of which was centered on a capital city or town and that was being ruled by a hereditary king known as an oba. This is one of the tools used by the government to create a more conducive and secured environment. The country has over 50 languages and over 250 dialects and ethnic groups. with Ivan Kanapathy, Bonny Lin and Stephen S. Roach These are also important aspects of our culture. February 1, 2023 5 important Significance of Igbo-Ukwu Culture in Nigerian History The climate also varies slightly depending on the region. Importance Of Reading Culture In Nigeria - 4014 Words | 123 Help Me The Yoruba culture is rich and unique drawing comparison with no other culture around. Each tribe has different dishes that are unique to their culture. Nigeria was once a British colony, so the official national language is English. As a developing country, Nigeria faces challenges regarding its infrastructure. In the Yoruba tradition, women wear an iro (wrapper), buba (loose shirt) and gele (head-wrap). Gifts from a man to a woman must be said to come from the mans mother, wife, sister, or other female relative, never from the man himself. If invited to dinner at someones home then bring fruit, nuts or chocolates for the host. Drinks include traditional brews like palm wine. The Kanuri people[12] are located in the northeast part of Nigeria, the Tiv people[13] of north central and the Efik-Ibibio[14] are in the south south. by Olivia Angelino, Thomas J. Bollyky, Elle Ruggiero and Isabella Turilli Fufu is so emblematic of Nigeria that it figures in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart, for example. Cultures and indigenous values must evolve bottom-up policies and approaches to growth and development in the country. 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. 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. Culture unites people, integrates them, and ensures their strength as a community. Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. Along with South Africa, Nigeria is considered a super-power in the African continent and consequently Nigerians are generally proud of their country. Kanuri, Fulani, and Hausa peoples are a majority in the north region of Nigeria. NIGERIA CULTURAL DIVERSITY. | World Scouting - scouts.org Other Nigerian men and women typically wear a traditional style called Buba. You may also find their tone slightly louder than elsewhere. Many Muslims and Christians may also intertwine their beliefs with more unorthodox indigenous ones. A complimentary cap called Fila may be added to the dressing. Many employ indirect eye contact to demonstrate their respect for the other person. It is common to gaze at the forehead or shoulders of someone they do not know well. Nigeria has a rich culture. 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]. What is real American culture? - coalitionbrewing.com Kano Durbar. Gifts are not always opened when received. 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. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. 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. You invest in security. The Nigerian Government in September, 1988, launched the "National Cultural Policy". A Nigerian generally waits for the woman to extend her hand. They are fond of the expression, "When Nigeria sneezes, the rest of the African nations (with the exception of South Africa) catch cold.". In spite of all these different languages, English is widely spoken around the country. Whether in urban or rural areas, the family is the central institution. The Importance Of Implementing A Strong Company Culture: 5 Core Values [81] Southern Nigerian women choose to wear western-style clothing. February 13, 2023 The Bini people[15][16] are most frequent in the region between Yorubaland and Igboland. Culture In Nigeria Essay - 968 Words | Internet Public Library [57] Led by the Nigerian traditional rulers (i.e. Many use gestures when communicating. 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. To rush a greeting is extremely rude; spend time inquiring about the other persons general well-being. After reading this article you will find out why. 5 importance of culture in nigeria Archives - 9jafoods