November 4, 2022 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. In masculine countries people "live in order to work", managers are expected to be decisive and assertive, the emphasis is on equity, competition and . Firstly, Nigeria's scores on the Cultural Dimension scale reveal that Nigerians place great value on Performance Orientation, Future Orientation, and In-group Collectivism. 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. with Jeremi Suri 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 . 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. We're helping multinational clients adequately prepare to thrive in the African market. [1][2] The country has 527 languages,[3][4] seven of which are extinct. 13 Things You Need to Know About Nigeria - Google Arts & Culture Gifts should be wrapped, although there are no cultural taboos concerning paper colour. The Lalli or henna paintings and drawings are a very popular and indispensable part of their makeup. Therefore, understanding Nigerian culture and way of life can seem like a daunting task, however, gaining this understanding will help you develop a robust action plan to build your business in the region. Families are a crucial aspect of Nigerian society and are typically larger than in the west. These environmental regions greatly affect the cultures of the people who live there. 3. [86] The men wear buba (long shirt), sokoto (baggy trousers), agbada (flowing robe with wide sleeves) and fila (a hat). 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 country is often discussed in terms of its regions (i.e., North, Southeast, and Southwest) and its dominant tribes. 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. . In other words, this is to say that, culture in its simple meaning can be the way of life . 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. Tags: Importance Of Culture In Nigeria,Types Of Culture In Nigeria. 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. Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. The men sometimes also add a cap called Fula to their dressing. 5. 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. [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. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. In addition, the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, and Naija Invest Gateway, provide real-time information on the Nigerian business culture. The Ijaws were originally known by this name (Oru); at least it was what their immediate neighbours assumed them to be. It explores what is meant by the term 'cultural heritage', while providing examples of same in Nigeria. Nigeria has three main environmental regions: savanna, tropical forests, and coastal wetlands. by Lindsay Maizland Nigerians are generally enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. The people of this tribe are gifted sculptors. Any attempt to bypass this protocol will hamper your business success. Photo by Muhammadtaha Ibrahim Ma'aji on Unsplash. Simply change the country name depending on which guide you are referencing. Age and position earns, even demands, respect. Other symbols used to communicate and share stories are music, sculpture, dance, painting, theater etc. 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. They look for the rationale behind behaviour and attempt to understand the context. The Igbo people of Eastern Nigeria commonly called Ndi Igbo are a very cultural set of people. It is a good idea to maintain a polite and somewhat reserved manner until the person you are meeting drops some of his formality. Igbo | Culture, Lifestyle, & Facts | Britannica They can also be found in large numbers in Cameroon and other African countries. However, even with the countrys infrastructural challenges, there are still quality, , and innovative transportation options, such as, Regardless of the countrys developmental struggles, Nigerians enjoy interacting with their community. It also explores some of the challenges faced (legal and extralegal) in the protection of cultural heritage and discloses recent legal developments. Hotels and nightclubs are part of the landscape of the larger cities. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. 2022 All Rights Reserved. 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. Meat is also popular and Nigerian suyaa barbecue-like roasted meatis a well-known delicacy. They believe that embedding humour in their message guarantees that what they say is not readily forgotten. It is the sixth largest oil-producing nation and has a well-educated and industrious society. February 13, 2023 Nigerians are generally, enterprising, resilient, and enthusiastic people. This ethnic group is well known for their colourful but modest dress due to their strong religious beliefs. Gifts are not always opened when received. People in urban regions of Nigeria dress in western style, the youth mainly wearing jeans and T-shirts. Nigeria is a hierarchical society. Here are 10 interesting facts about Nigeria: 1. Shake hands at the beginning and end of meetings. Some of their native clothing materials include Aso-oke or Ofi and Adire. according to this 2013 Pew Research study. The terra-cotta figurines of the Nok are some of the earliest statues in existence from sub-Saharan Africa. 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. When a person becomes a member of the society, he accumulates knowledge about language, symbols, values, norms, customs and traditions of that environment. It is believed that the Igbo people originated in an area that is about 100 miles north of their current location at the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers. In return the most senior person has the responsibility to make decisions that are in the best interest of the group. This is one of the tools used by the government to create a more conducive and secured environment. The Igbo political system isnt strong which explains why they are not a politically strong unit within the Nigerian system. Descending into the valley is a lengthy walkway of 317 steps, which were constructed by the state government. Never write on your business card. Importance of culture Nigeria culture plays an important role in lives of separate individuals and the society as the whole. This shows that reading culture is a prerequisite foracquisition of knowledge and skills needed by all people in a rapidly changing world and catalyst for participation in social, cultural, political and economic activities of the show more content. In the pre-colonial period, they controlled a powerful empire. [39] Their traditional religion is known as Omenani/Omenala. If invited to dinner at someones home then bring fruit, nuts or chocolates for the host. Nigeria scores 60 on this dimension and is thus a masculine society. In spite of all these different languages, English is widely spoken around the country. [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. The oldest person in a group is revered and honoured. Nigeria is a hierarchical society. 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. They are ruled by monarchs, and are famous for their Benin Bronzes. The Importance Of Implementing A Strong Company Culture: 5 Core Values . Their traditional religion, Ifa, has been recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral tradition of Humanity. It is used for commemoration. All maps, graphics, flags, photos and original descriptions 2023 worldatlas.com, Nigerian Culture, Customs, and Traditions, South African Culture, Customs, and Traditions. [online] Available at: https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/afghanistan-guide [Accessed ENTER DATE]. They have a strong culture of colourful masquerades that entertain people during festivals and other important functions. 4. Igbos are mostly farmers, traders, and craftsmen. Here are a few commonly used saying in Nigeria that are worth noting: Nigeria is a very diverse and dynamic country. If you're looking for expert help and advice on how to work effectively with Nigerians, then this is what we do! There is a large variety of linguistic and ethnic groups in the country. Age is believed to be the main wisdom of the nation. 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 architectural mastery of the Hausas is perhaps one of the least known buys the most beautiful of the medieval age. Before looking at the importance and types of culture in Nigeria, its good to know the definition. In Nigeria, there are more than 500 languages that are spoken. [77], The music of Nigeria includes many kinds of folk and popular music, some of which are known worldwide. Native religions in which people believe in deities, spirits and ancestor worship, are spread throughout the country. [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. Culture. Nigeria is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country of almost 200 million people. Several streams also flow into the caves . In general, Nigerians start with the general idea and slowly move into the specific, often using a somewhat circuitous route. www.commisceo-global.com. Nigerias culture rooted in fashion, film, music, and literature translates into enhanced international prestige. Like many other aspects of life, food is a deeply rooted expression of identity, values, and way of life. These include Femi Osofisan,[68] whose first published novel, Kolera Kolej, was produced in 1975; Ben Okri, whose first work, The Famished Road, was published in 1991, and Buchi Emecheta, who wrote stories drawn from her personal experiences of gender inequity that promote viewing women through a single prism of the ability to marry and have children. This overview of Nigerian culture has, hopefully, provided you with the insight you need to ensure the successful expansion of your business, as a new entrant in the Nigerian market. The official language of Nigeria, English, was chosen to facilitate the cultural and linguistic unity of the country post-colonization by the British. THANKS FOR READING OUR GUIDE TO NIGERIA. 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. Nigeria is the most important country politically and economically in West Africa. They make beautiful sculptures in honour of their gods and deities. Regardless of the countrys developmental struggles, Nigerians enjoy interacting with their community. Unique to Nigeria, the percentage of Christians to Muslims are nearly equal, with a small percentage being allocated to populations that practice indigenous religions. Other clothing gear includes a gele, which is the woman's headgear. 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 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. Their chiefs are therefore monarchs and titled individuals, with most of the latter group making up the membership of the Ogboni secret society. 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]. You must take the time to ask about the persons health, the health of their family, or other social niceties. They are fond of the expression, "When Nigeria sneezes, the rest of the African nations (with the exception of South Africa) catch cold.". At Ramadan, it is customary for Muslims to give gifts of food and fruit. This then ended up playing a significant role in the social life and culture of the Hausa people. Nigerian literature and its emerging figures were themselves the subject of a Times piece in November 2017. The Hausa group (majority of them are Muslims) prevail in the northern region of Nigeria. The Hausa and Fulani are in fact different tribes, but are often counted as one due to cultural similarity. 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. According to the FIFA World Rankings, Nigeria ranks 31st and holds the second-highest place among the African nations behind Senegal (20th). Success, like in any other culture, is important to Nigerias citizens and is greatly revered in Nigerian culture. Nigeria has two seasons: rainy season, which occurs in April until September, and dry season, which is referred to as Harmattan. To read more about the Nigerian management style, click here. It is used for decoration and beautification. This is known as the Nze na Ozo title system. 3 Best Alternative Digital Banks in Nigeria for Online Transaction. It also emphasizes the importance of nature, family and tradition. Since the 1990s the Nigerian movie industry, sometimes called "Nollywood", has emerged as a fast-growing cultural force all over Africa. National Cultural Dimensions-Nigeria | Cultural Sensitivity in the Vast wealth has been generated by it, and it is currently the second-largest film industry in the world by output. 5 importance of culture in nigeria Archives - 9jafoods 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. [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. Cultural conflicts can arise within large communities as a result. Therefore, if this is the first time you are meeting with a Nigerian company, you should expect to devote a decent period of time to getting to know people on a personal level. 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. This is due to the large number of ethnic groups that exist in the country. Various other minor ethnic groups make up the rest of the country. 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. 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. Traditional instruments include various types of flutes, trumpets, musical bows, xylophones, and wooden clappers, as well as many varieties of drums. Fufu is so emblematic of Nigeria that it figures in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart, for example. The Igbos are renowned for their strong use of proverbs. 'Odinana', as the immutable customary rites and traditions of the Igbo world, is enduring and cuts across indigenous Igbo people, while 'omenana' is rather relative from one section of the Igbo to the other. While many artists still work in these traditions, more-contemporary artists, who combine African and Western traditions, also abound. The Yoruba language is pleasing to the ear as it places a lot of emphasis on intonation. Culture is defined as the way of life of a group of people. Nigeria's vibrant popular culture reflects great changes in inherited traditions and adaptations of imported ones. The people of ancient Nigeria were able to make their own weapons. [33][34], The Hausas, on the other hand, are said to be very good merchants. Women wear long flowing robes and headscarves made by local makers who dye and weave the fabric locally. Due to the ethnic make-up of the country, communication styles vary. You are already subscribed to our newsletter! [47] They immigrated to West Africa from the Nile Valley during antiquity. The Oshogbo movement, founded in the early 1960s, includes the artists Muraina Oyelami, Twins Seven-Seven (Prince Taiwo Osuntoki), Bisi Fabunmi, Tijani Mayakiri, Rufus Ogundele, and Ademola Onibonokuta. [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. In the article, author Adenike Olanrewaju describes the emergence of publications Genevieve Magazine, Exquisite Magazine, Todays Woman, and Glam Africa. Silk (called tsamiya in Hausa, sanyan in Yoruba, and akpa-obubu in Igbo) is also used. 2. These are also important aspects of our culture. Furthermore, Nigerians are known for their. A high value on Performance Orientation means the culture would ideally highly encourage and reward improvement and excellence (GLOBE, 2004). However, pidgin English and indigenous languages are also spoken throughout the country. Along with South Africa, Nigeria is considered a super-power in the African continent and consequently Nigerians are generally proud of their country. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. [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. The Okays make up 10%, Kanuri 4%, Ibibio 3.5% and Tiv 2.5%. Soups can be thickened by adding ground egusi (melon) seeds. The culture of the country is diverse and tends to differ from north to south. A company culture that prioritizes high employee satisfaction sets itself up for payoff in the form of higher employee motivation, lower turnover rates and . [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. Nigerian traditions are wide and vary in the different cultures. It is used for expressing one's feelings. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. [53] They eventually became the most urbanized Africans of precolonial times. According to Yoruba Mythology, this group of people believes that they are descendants of Oduduwa. Perhaps that is happening first with respect to art and culture, rather than by the more conventional political and security means. 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. You are also agreeing to our. 1. The traditional Yoruba kingships still survive, but with only a hint of their former political power. Culture In Nigeria Essay - 968 Words | Internet Public Library If you plan to work from an agenda, it is a good idea to send it in advance of the meeting. Nigerian People And Culture - All You Need To Know. Their religion, mode of dressing, food, marriage, and language are all unique. In fact, over 250 languages and dialects are used across Nigerias 36 states. The pioneer of Afrobeat, Fela Kuti, became internationally famous in the 1970s and 1980s and has inspired generations of Western artists, such as Talking Heads and Beyonc. It is said that it was at Ife that the gods descended from heaven and created the world. Culture - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria For men the loose-fitting shirt goes down to halfway down the thigh. January 31, 2022, How Tobacco Laws Could Help Close the Racial Gap on Cancer, Interactive Age and position earns, even demands, respect. Close friends and family members often kiss and hug when meeting. Nigerians prefer facial expressions that imply empathy and believe an indifferent facial expression indicates that a person is ignorant or obnoxious. Nigerian Food Culture and Customs: Three Yorb Sayings on It. You put your proverbial (and actual) money where your mouth is in the form of budget and staff . Cultural Policy in Nigeria [60], Nigeria is famous for its English language literature. Titles are important. The larger number of families is because a higher number of children improves the social standing of a man. Food is an important part of Nigerian life. Click here to learn more about our customized cultural training. In literature, Chinua Achebe, Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, and, more recently, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have significant readership in the United States. 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. The Yoruba culture is rich and unique drawing comparison with no other culture around. Annual Lecture on China. It's a complex system that transfers social experience from one generation to other and from era to era. Challenges that include a variety of issues, such as inconsistent electricity, bad roads, and low-quality public transportation. When employees join a company, they are doing so in return for fair compensation, career development, and various benefits. Many employ indirect eye contact to demonstrate their respect for the other person. Wait for a woman to extend her hand first. 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. Our culture determines the way we communicate with others. 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. Violation of these laws will lead to certain sanctions that are established by the community and are supported by the power of public opinion. 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? [51] The Yoruba people have always shared a common language called the Yoruba language and the same culture for hundreds of years now but they were less likely to be a single political unit. Establishments serving alcoholic beverages are found everywhere except where Islamic laws prohibit them. Seafood, beef, poultry, and goat are the primary sources of protein. The Yoruba language has several versions of it spoken by different units within this ethnic group. 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. In fact, over 250 languages and dialects are used across Nigerias 36 states. 5. The Hausa, who do not consider dancing to be an art, divide their dances into the categories of social dancing and ceremonial borii dances. Different generations of Nigerians are closely connected due to their culture. Commonly referred to as the giant of Africa, Nigeria is highly populated and unlike any other African country. Nigeria has the largest population on the continent and the third-largest manufacturing sector. Kanuri, Fulani, and Hausa peoples are a majority in the north region of Nigeria. In return, most senior citizens have the responsibility to make various decisions on behalf of ethnic groups. In addition to its intrinsic value, culture provides important social and economic benefits. 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. He is assisted by a team of elders known as Enjoyed (Chiefs). After reading this article you will find out why. Nigeria has two seasons: rainy season, which occurs in April until September, and dry season, which is referred to as Harmattan. This number includes 510 living languages, 2 second languages without native speakers and 9 extinct languages. Nigeria itself is home to several textile industries that go towards clothing the Nigerian people. 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. A colonial explorer stole Aboriginal spears in 1770. Centuries later [84], Nigeria has over 250 ethnic groups[85] and as a result, a wide variety of traditional clothing styles. The Igbo ethnic group most produce and trade in oil, cocoa and rubber. 1. Daily life in Nigeria varies based on location, and whether you reside in the city or rural areas. [5][6][7] Nigeria also has over 1150 dialects and ethnic groups. Wait until invited before moving to a first-name basis. The app is highly secured, licensed by CBN and insured by NDIC which makes your money safe even if anything goes wrong. 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. Photo by IITA (CC BY-NC 2.0). [88] Hausa men wear barbarigas or kaftans (long flowing gowns) with tall decorated hats. The first wedding is traditional, the second one being in a court, while the third is in the church or the mosque.