Southern Nigeria's Pre-Colonial History

• Course GST 112 covers Nigerian Peoples and Culture (2 units), exploring Nigerian history, culture, arts, colonial rule, nationalism, nation-building challenges, trade, economic self-reliance, social justice, individual and national development, norms, values, socio-political developments, and cultural evolution in Nigeria.

Introduction

• Nigeria's political entity was established around 1800 because of British influence.
• Colonial rule began in 1900, focused on resource exploitation for Britain's benefit.
• The colonial economy aimed to supply raw materials and serve as a market for British goods.
• Unbalanced economic growth resulted, with infrastructure like railways built to export cash crops.
• Food crop production was neglected in favor of cash crops.
• Mining was dominated by European companies, with profits sent to Europe.
• The colonial economy hindered industrial development and created a dependent status.
• The economy was structured around peasant-based agriculture, cheap labor in extractive industries, and commerce focused on raw material export and manufactured goods import.
• Services were mainly related to colonial administration, law enforcement, and infrastructure.
• Nationalist movements arose in response to the British colonial administration's exploitative arrangements.

Historical Origin

• The political entity of Nigeria has existed for over 1400 years.
• Nigeria is geographically divided into the Northern, Western, and Eastern regions.
• Nigeria became an independent dominion within the British Commonwealth on October 1, 1960.
• It adopted a Republican Constitution in 1963.
• Nigeria was fully formed in 1914 through the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates under Sir Frederick Lugard.
• The name "Nigeria" was suggested in 1898 by Mary Flora Shaw, who later married Lugard.
• Before this, the area was known as 'The Niger-Area'.

The People of Nigeria: Different Ethnic Groups

• Nigeria comprises diverse ethnic groups with varying religions, occupations, cultures, and socio-economic lives.
• Prominent ethnic groups include Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Efik, Ijaw, Tiv, Bini, and Kanuri.
• The Hausa primarily reside in the Northern part of Nigeria, while the Nupe, Tiv, and Igala occupy the middle part, often referred to as the 'middle-Belters'.
• The Yoruba are mainly found in the West, while the Igbo are in the Eastern part of Nigeria.
• The Hausa are predominantly cattle rearers and crop cultivators.
• The Western region experiences higher rainfall, making the land fertile for agricultural activities.
• Trading is a common activity among Nigerians, with the Igbos known as prominent traders.
• Despite differences in religion, culture, and beliefs, various ethnic groups coexist peacefully.
• Pre-colonial political organizations maintained a system of checks and balances, exemplified by the Oyo Empire's political structure involving the Alafin, Oyo-Mesi, and Ogboni cult.

The Peoples of Southern Nigerian and Their Culture in Pre-Colonial Times

• Southern Nigeria is home to major ethnic groups like the Yoruba, Bini, Igbo, Itsekiri, Urhobo, and Ijaw.
• The Yoruba are mainly found in Western and Central States, practicing Islam, Christianity, and traditional beliefs.
• The origins of the Yoruba people are debated with different versions.

Origins of the Yoruba Empire

• The origins of the Yoruba people remain controversial, with multiple versions of their history.
• Rev. Samuel Johnson's version:
  • Johnson's version traces Yoruba origins to the "East," specifically North-Eastern Africa.
  • Similarities in religious practices, art, burial customs, and traditions between Yoruba and Egyptian cultures support this theory.
  • The Yoruba migrated from Egypt and settled in Ile-Ife, led by Oduduwa, who sent his descendants to establish other Yoruba kingdoms.
  • Johnson emphasizes the strong Eastern affinities in Yoruba habits, manners, and customs, linking their origins to Mecca.

The Oke Oramfe's Version

• Oke Oramfe is considered the center of creation in Ile-Ife.
• According to legend, the world was covered by water.
• The Almighty God sent messengers, including Obatala (Orisa Nla) and sixteen Oye (immortals), with items like iron pieces, earth, cloth, and a cockerel.
• Obatala became drunk, and Oduduwa seized authority, leading the party to the world.
• Oduduwa placed the items at Oke Oramfe, forming the earth, and he became the ruler, extending authority to other Yoruba towns.

The Socio-Political Organization of the Yoruba

• Oyo emerged as a major kingdom and empire in Yorubaland, founded by Oranmiyan, son of Oduduwa.
• Oyo Empire was founded in the mid-15th century, becoming powerful and extending its authority to Dahomey.

The Alaafin Administration

• Oyo possessed checks and balances, contributing to its stability.
• The Alaafin was the head of the empire, residing in the capital and considered "Lord of many lands."
• The Alaafin was assisted by officials, priests, and eunuchs.
• The Alaafin's powers were limited by the Oyomesi, a council of seven members.
• The Oyomesi, headed by the Bashorun, acted as kingmakers and could remove a dictatorial Alaafin, who was expected to commit suicide.

The Ogboni Cult's Administration

• The Ogboni cult, composed of prominent members, mediated conflicts between the Oyomesi and the Alaafin.
• It served as a counter power to the Oyomesi.

The Army

• The army was headed by the Are-Ona-Kankanfo and included infantry and cavalry.
• It maintained the empire's stability and expansion.
• Oyo Empire had provincial governments led by princes and governors, subject to the Alaafin's authority.
• The Alaafin had personal agents, Ilari, in the provinces and used the Bere festival to acknowledge allegiance.

The Bini Empire

• The Bini were the first to be visited by Europeans in 1472 A.D.
• The Bini Kingdom exchanged ambassadors with Portugal between 1481 and 1504. Origins of Benin Kingdom
• The Bini have various traditions of origin.

The Egharevba's Version

• Egharevba claims the Bini migrated from Egypt, settling in Ile-Ife before their present location.

Igbafe's Version

• This version states the Bini have always lived in the area.
• Bini mythology says Bini was the youngest child of Osanobua (the High God).
• Bini chose a snail shell, which, when overturned on a world covered by water, released sand to form land.
• This made Bini powerful and wealthy, selling portions of the land to his elder brothers.

Ogiso’s Version

• The Ogiso era marks the first period of pre-colonial Bini history, with rulers known as Ogisos.
• The first Ogiso, Igbodo, was succeeded by Ere, who established the guild system.
• The last Ogiso, Owodo, clashed with nobles, leading to his son Ekaladeran's banishment.
• Ekaladeran founded Ughoton and moved to Ife, later sending his son Oranmiyan to rule Benin.
• Oranmiyan established the Eweka dynasty, with Eweka I becoming the first Oba of Benin.

The Socio-Political Organization of the Bini

• The Bini Kingdom was well-organized socio-politically.
• The town had a great broad street, as noted by Hodgkin in 1604.
• The political system centered on the Oba, who was the kingdom's head, succeeding by primogeniture.
• The Oba was the civil and religious head, regarded as divine.
• Bini society was classified into the nobility (Adesotu) and commoners (Ighiotu).
• The nobility was organized into three groups of title holders: Uzama, Eghaevbo n' Ogbe, and Eghaevbo n' ore.
• Ordinary people were organized into guilds like carvers, brass-workers, and blacksmiths.

The Igbo People

• The Igbo are known for their segmentary or acephalous way of life, without centralized states.
• They are grouped into five sub-cultures: Igbo of eastern, south-eastern, north-eastern Nigeria, Western Igbo, and Northern Igbo.
• The Igbo are predominantly farmers and traders, sharing a common language with mutually intelligible dialects.
• They share a political system based on decentralization of power and delegation of authority through the Ofo.

Origins of the Igbo

• The origin of the Igbo people is controversial.

The Middle East Version

• Some believe the Igbo migrated from the North or Middle-east.

The Igboland Centred Version

• Others believe the Igbo have always been in their present location, making Igboland the original homeland.

The Nri Version

• Professor M.A. Onwuejeogwu considers the Nri version the only authentic version of origin.
• According to this version, the ancestor of the Igbo, Eri, descended from the sky and settled with autochthonous people, later migrating to other parts of Igboland.

The Awka or Orlu Version

• Another tradition considers Awka or Orlu towns as the center of origin of the Igbo.

The Idah Version

• Some groups, like the Umunri, claim to have migrated from Idah.

The Benin Version

• The Onitsha and Delta Igbo claim Benin origin.

The Israeli Version

• The Igbo are considered off-shoots of the lost tribes of the Hebrews.
• It is difficult to reconcile these versions due to the acephalous nature of Igbo society and limited professional historians.
• There were no equivalents of Oba, Alaafin, or palaces in most parts of Igboland.

The Socio-Political Organization of the Igbo

• The Igbo did not build strong centralized states because of their fragmentary society.
• In traditional Igbo society, the village was the center of government, practicing direct democracy involving all male adults.

The Amala Oha

• Amala Oha was a general assembly where male adults met to perform legislative functions.
• Decisions made were absolute and final, respecting individual capability and age over family background.
• Elders formed the core of village administration, with hardworking and wealthy individuals holding responsibilities.
• Youth, middle-aged, and able-bodied men constituted age-sets with specific rights, duties, and responsibilities.

The Itsekiri: Origin of the Itsekiri People

• Iginuwa established the Itsekiri kingdom around 1473, unlike the Yoruba, Bini, and Igbo.
• Iginuwa, son of Oba Olua of Benin, was sent to establish a kingdom by the sea.
• He met with Ijaws who took him to an island that became the Itsekiri Kingdom.

The Socio-Political Organization of the Itsekiri People

• The kingdom was made up of Itsekiri, Ijaw, and other elements, with Ode Itsekiri as the capital.
• The political organization was similar to that of Benin Kingdom, ruled by the Olu, who presided over the Ojoye council of seven nobles.
• The Olu held spiritual and temporal powers.

The Urhobo: Origin of the Urhobo People

• The Urhobo people have multiple versions of their origins.

Ughelli, Aghara and Ogo Version

• According to Ughelli, Aghara, and Ogo, the Urhobo originated from the Ijaw, making it historically and culturally difficult to differentiate them.

Uwherun, Abraka, Agbon, Oogun and Olomu Version

• To Uwherun, Abraka, Agbon, Oogun, Olomu, the Urhobo are Benin immigrants, making it historically and culturally difficult to differentiate them.

The Socio-Political Organization of the Urhobo People

• The Urhobo are in the Niger Delta region but, unlike the Itsekiri, have never established a single kingdom.
• Each Urhobo village had its own traditional institution headed by a ruler (Ovie).
• The political organization was modeled after Benin Kingdom, with the Ovie having a court of prominent individuals.
• Adult male members were divided into age sets, each performing specific duties.

The Ijaw: Origin of the Ijaw People

• The Ijaw share similar stories of origin with the Itsekiri and Urhobo.

The Socio-Political Organization of the Ijaw People

• The Ijaw did not develop a centralized system of government.
• They were scattered in small fishing settlements in the creeks of the River Niger.
• The "House System" characterized Ijaw societies.
• The Ijaw were traders, especially fishermen.
• Major Ijaw states were Bonny, Kalabari, Ibrika, Opobo, and Brass-Nembe.

The Peoples of Northern Nigeria and Their Culture in Pre-Colonial Times

• Major ethnic groups in Northern Nigeria include the Hausa, Kanem-Bornu, Nupe, Igala, Jukun, and Tiv.

Major Ethnic Groups of Northern Nigeria

• The Hausa, Kanem-Bornu, Nupe, Igala, Jukun, and Tiv are the six major ethnic groups in Northern Nigeria.

The Hausa/Fulani People

• The Hausa people are politically dominant in Northern Nigeria.
• By the year 2000, their population was estimated at about twenty million.
• They are one of the largest linguistic groups in Africa.

Origins of the Hausa

• The origin of the Hausa people is uncertain.

The Bayajida Version

• The Bayajida story, considered the most authentic oral tradition, explains the origin of the Hausa states.
• Bayajida is the founder/hero of the Hausa states.
• He is believed to have come from Baghdad to Kanem-Bornu and then to Hausaland.
• He married the daughter of the Mai of Bornu and later married the queen of Daura after killing a snake.
• Bayajida's son, Bawo, and his children founded the original seven Hausa states, known as the "Hausa Bokwoi."

The Socio-Political Organization of the Hausa

• The Sarki is the head of a Hausa state, working with officials in an organized court.
• Sarkin Kasar is the full title given to an effective ruler, combining political and religious functions.
• The ruler is aided by a council of state.
• District-level government is modeled after the national level.
• Islam was adopted between the 14th and 15th centuries, creating offices like Galadima, Madawaki, Magaji, and Alkali.

The Kanem-Bornu People

• Kanuri unites all the Kanem-Bornu people.

Origin of the Kanem-Bornu People

• The Kanem-Bornu have many uncertain versions of their origin.

The SO Version

• The So people were the first settlers in Kanem-Bornu, with a sophisticated culture based on agriculture and iron technology.

The Saif b. Dhiyazan Version

• The Arab hero, Saif b. Dhiyazan attributed with founding Kanem-Bornu between 9th and 10th centuries A.D.
• Yazan established the Saifawa dynasty.
• The Saifawa dynasty was one of the longest ruling dynasties in pre-colonial West Africa.

The Socio-Political Organization of the Kanem-Bornu

• The nucleus of the socio-political organization was based on kinship.
• The Mai (king) was the highest authority, with his mother (Magira) playing an important role.
• The King's sister assisted in the day-to-day administration.

The "Nokena"

• An imperial state council known as the "Nokena" or council of the twelve offered the king advice.

The Maini Kanendi

• The Maini Kanendi was the chief judge and legal adviser of the state.

The Army

• The army played a vital role and was divided strategically into home and bush garrisons.

The Titled Nobility

• The titled nobility exercised tremendous influence and administered fiefdoms.
• Galadima, Kaigama, Yerima and Meshema were the most important

The Servile Institution

• Slaves and eunuchs held offices like "Mushemu", "Yuroma" and Kachella" and were important to the administration of the state.

The Nupe

• The early history of the Nupe people is not well-known.
• The pre-colonial Nupe state developed in the Niger and Benue valleys of the Nigerian Middle Belt.
• The Nupe state was located on the north bank of the Niger, at confluence with the River Kaduna.
• Nupeland was located at the crossroads of trade from Borno to Kano, as well as Yorubaland, Ganga and Benin.
• Gbara was its capital and connecting Benin and Oyo trade with Nupe.

Origins of the Nupe People

• Like any other ethnic group in Nigeria, the Nupe people also has various versions of origin.

The Nupe-Centred Version

• Some scholars believe that the early Nupe people originated where they presently occupy.

The Egyptian Version

• Other elites argue that the first peoples of

Pre-Colonial Kingdoms

• Uthman Dan Fodio founded the Sokoto Caliphate.
• The Alaafin ruled the Oyo Empire.
• The Oyomesi were kingmakers and advisors in the Oyo Empire.
• The Ogboni cult had judicial and spiritual authority in Yoruba society.
• The Benin Kingdom is famous for producing Benin Bronzes.
• Islamic scholarship was advanced in the Kanem-Bornu Empire.
• Igbo communities were governed through village councils and elders.
• The Sokoto Caliphate was founded in the 19th century.
• The Oba of Benin was regarded as a political and spiritual leader.
• Trans-Saharan trade was a major economic activity of the Kanem-Bornu Empire.

Colonial Rule and Resistance

• Lord Lugard was the British governor who amalgamated Nigeria.
• Nigeria was amalgamated in 1914.
• Indirect Rule system of colonial rule used traditional rulers.
• The Aba Women’s Riot took place in 1929.
• Colonial taxation policies were the major cause of the Aba Women’s Riot.
• Indirect rule was more successful in Northern Nigeria.
• Direct rule was implemented more in Igbo and Yoruba areas.
• British economic interest was the major reason for the amalgamation of Nigeria.
• Sultan Attahiru resisted British rule in Northern Nigeria.
• Oba Ovonramwen led the resistance against British rule in the Benin Kingdom.

Social Justice and Conflict

• Social justice means equal access to rights and opportunities.
• Strengthening fair laws can promote social justice.
• Competition for land and political power is a major cause of indigene-settler conflicts in Nigeria.
• Land ownership disputes caused the Ife-Modakeke crisis.
• The Jos Crisis is between the Berom and Hausa-Fulani groups.
• Social justice ensures equal access to opportunities.

Culture and Its Importance

• Culture is the way of life of a group of people.
• Culture is learned and shared.
• Promoting national identity is a major importance of culture. Artifacts, Tools, Food, and Attire.
• The Ifa Divination Board is associated with Yoruba culture.
• Abacha is a common Igbo traditional food.
• The Hausa-Fulani ethnic group is known for its leatherwork and pottery.
• Red coral beads are included in the traditional attire of the Edo people.
• The Swange dance is associated with the Tiv ethnic group.
• Mbari House is a cultural artifact of Igbo culture.

General Knowledge

• Anger Cloth is the Tiv people's traditional black and white striped fabric.
• Fura da Nono is a traditional Hausa-Fulani drink.
• The Ibibio/Efik ethnic group is known for the Ekombi dance.
• The Ofo Staff tool is used in Igbo culture for traditional decision-making.
• The Ife Bronze Heads are associated with the Yoruba ethnic group.

Traditional Leadership and Governance

• The Sultan was the highest political authority in the Sokoto Caliphate.
• The Eghaevbo N’Ore assisted the Oba of Benin.
• The Ogboni cult had judicial and spiritual authority in Yoruba society.
• The Oyomesi was the highest ruling council in the Oyo Empire.
• The Emirate System of the Hausa-Fulani was based on Islamic governance.

Colonialism and Resistance

• Economic exploitation was the main objective of British colonial rule in Nigeria.
• Direct rule was mainly used in Eastern Nigeria.
• Traditional rulers had centralised authority in the North; this is why indirect rule worked best.
• Nwanyeruwa led The Aba Women’s Riot of 1929.
• The 1914 Amalgamation of Nigeria united the Northern and Southern Protectorates.

Indigene-Settler Conflicts in Nigeria

• Land disputes caused The Ife-Modakeke conflict.
• The Berom and Hausa-Fulani fought in The Jos crisis.
• The Hausa-Fulani and Kataf (Atyap) were involved in the Zangon Kataf crisis in Kaduna State.

Culture and Its Importance

• Culture's major role in society is to promote development.
• Culture's dynamic nature allows it to change over time.
• Festivals are examples of intangible cultural heritage.

Artifacts, Tools, and Traditional Items

• Benin Bronzes are made from brass and bronze.
• The Yoruba talking drum is called Dundun.
• The Igbo traditional judicial symbol is the Ofo staff.

Traditional Food and Clothing

• Moi Moi is a popular Yoruba dish made from beans.
• Isi-Agu is an Igbo traditional attire.
• The traditional Fulani attire for men includes Babban Riga.

Nigerian Traditional Dances

• The Swange dance is performed by the Tiv.
• The Bata dance is associated with the Yoruba.
• The Ekombi dance is performed by the Efik.

Traditional Festivals in Nigeria

• The Eyo festival is celebrated in Lagos.
• The Argungu Festival is associated with Fishing.
• The New Yam Festival is an important celebration of the Igbo.

General Knowledge

• Obi is the highest traditional title among the Igbo.
• The Durbar Festival is a major celebration among the Hausa-Fulani.
• The Benin Kingdom was known for its military power.
• The Hausa-Fulani empire was ruled based on Islamic governance.

Nigerian Traditional Beliefs and Religion

• Traditional African religion is mostly polytheistic.
• Olodumare is the supreme deity in Yoruba belief.
• Ala is the goddess of earth among the Igbo.
• Bori is the name of the traditional religion of the Hausa-Fulani.
• Belief in ancestors as spiritual intermediaries is called ancestral worship.
• The Igbo spiritual messenger of Amadioha is Ofo.

Major Conflicts and Ethnic Clashes in Nigeria

• Oil exploration and environmental degradation are the major cause of the Niger Delta conflict.
• The Tiv-Jukun conflict in Benue/Taraba is mostly about political control.
• The Aguleri-Umuleri conflict in Anambra is related to Land ownership.

Colonial Economy and Administration

• The British introduced a money economy in Nigeria.
• Cocoa was the main cash crop in Western Nigeria during colonial rule.
• The colonial economy was designed to exploit resources for Britain.
• The Native Authority System was created under Lord Lugard.
• Indirect rule helped expand Islam in Northern Nigeria.

Nigerian Independence and Political History

• Nigeria gained independence in 1960.
• Tafawa Balewa was Nigeria’s first Prime Minister.
• The first military coup in Nigeria occurred in 1966.

Modern Nigerian Culture and Society

• The Nigerian film industry is popularly known as Nollywood.
• Nigeria’s national pledge was introduced in 1976.
• English is the official language of Nigeria.

Nigerian Art, Music, and Literature

• Chinua Achebe wrote Things Fall Apart.
• The Mbari art form is associated with the Igbo culture.
• Wole Soyinka won the Nobel Prize in 1986.

Traditional Architecture and Housing

• The Hausa-Fulani traditional houses are made of mud bricks.
• The Yoruba traditional compound is called Ile.
• Igbo houses traditionally have Courtyards.

Traditional Medicine and Healing Practices

• Traditional medicine in Nigeria is mainly based on herbs and spiritual healing.
• The Yoruba traditional healer is called Babalawo.
• Igbo traditional medicine men are known as Dibia.

Nigerian Festivals and Cultural Celebrations

• The Osun-Osogbo festival is celebrated in Osun state.
• The Argungu Festival is mostly associated with fishing.
• Calabar Carnival is celebrated in Calabar annually.

Major Rivers and Landmarks in Nigeria

• River Niger is the longest river in Nigeria.
• Zuma Rock is located in Niger state.
• Olumo Rock is found in Ogun state.

Cultures of Southern Nigeria

• Ekpe is the traditional Efik masquerade.
• Ekombi dance is performed by the Efik.
• Nsibidi is the Efik traditional writing system.
• Fishing is what the iIjaw people are mainly known for.
• Ogele is the Ijaw traditional boat festival.
• Pere is the name of the traditional Ijaw masquerade.
• Oba is the traditional ruler of Benin.
• Brass and bronze artworks is what the Benin Empire was famous for.
• Igue is the most recognized traditional festival in Benin.
• Ovwuvwe is the Urhobo annual festival.
• Delta contains the Itsekiri people.

Festivals in Southern Nigeria

• The Igbo call the New Yam Festival Iri Ji.
• The famous Yoruba festival that involves white-robed participants is Eyo.
• The Calabar Carnival is held annually in December.
• The Ojude Oba festival is mainly celebrated by the Yoruba (Ijebu).

Artifacts and Cultural Tools of Southern Nigeria

• The Yoruba spiritual board used for divination is called Ifa board.
• The Yoruba traditional staff used by Sango worshippers is Ose Sango.
• The Yoruba use Bata drum for religious rituals.
• The Igbo sacred symbol of justice is Ofo.
• The Igbo traditional wooden gong is called Ekwe.
• The Igbo masquerade associated with ancestral spirits is called Ekpe.

Social Justice and Development in Nigeria

• Social justice is the idea that laws should be applied equally.
• A major way to promote social justice in Nigeria is through equal rights for all.
• NHRC promotes human rights in Nigeria.
• The Nigerian constitution guarantees freedom of expression and rights.

Nigerian Traditional Attires

• The traditional Yoruba male attire includes Agbada.
• Igbo traditional male attire is called Isi Agu.
• The Hausa-Fulani female attire includes Hijab and Abaya.
• The Efik women’s traditional attire is called Ekombi

Major Historical Events in Nigeria

• The Aba Women’s Riot occurred in 1929
• The 1914 Amalgamation was led by Lord Lugard
• Usman Dan Fodio was the leader of the Sokoto Jihad
• The Oyomesi's role in Oyo Empire was advisors to the Alaafin
• The Ogboni cult in Yoruba society was responsible for maintaining justice

Nigerian Traditional Leadership and Governance

• The Alaafin of Oyo was advised by The Oyomesi
• The Emirate system of government was introduced by Usman Dan Fodio
• In the pre-colonial Hausa-Fulani system, power was centralized under The Emir
• The Ogboni cult in Yoruba society was mainly responsible for Administering justice

Amalgamation and Colonial Rule

• The amalgamation of Nigeria occurred in 1914
• The British adopted Indirect rule system of governance in Northern Nigeria
• The Aba Women’s Riot was a protest against Colonial taxation
• A major reason the British used indirect rule in Northern Nigeria was the North already had a centralized system

Cultural Practices and Attires

• The Hausa traditional attire for men is called Babanriga
• The Efik traditional women’s attire is called Ekombi
• The Igbo sacred staff of justice is called Ofo
• The Yoruba festival that honors ancestors is Gelede

Social Justice and Conflict Resolution

• Indigene vs settler conflicts in Nigeria are caused by Land ownership disputes
• The best way to promote social justice is through equal representation
• The NHRC agency protects human rights in Nigeria

Nigerian Art and Aesthetics

• The famous bronze heads of Nigeria come from Ife
• The Benin bronze plaques were used to decorate palaces
• Nsibidi writing is associated with Efik people

Nigerian Traditional Festivals

• The New Yam Festival is primarily celebrated by Igbo people
• The Argungu Fishing Festival is associated with Kebbi
• The Durbar Festival is a major celebration in Kano
• The Osun-Osogbo Festival is held in honor of Osun

Pre-Colonial Kingdoms and Empires

• The Oyo Empire was famous for its strong military cavalry
• The Benin Kingdom was known for its bronze and brass sculptures
• The Igbo political system was mainly republican
• The Sokoto Caliphate was founded in 1804

Colonialism and Nationalism

• Direct rule was used by the British in Southern Nigeria
• The Aba Women’s Riot was mainly against Colonial taxation
• Nigeria gained independence in 1960
• Nnamdi Azikiwe was Nigeria’s first indigenous Governor-General

Traditional Social Structure

• In Yoruba society, the king is called Oba
• The Hausa-Fulani traditional ruler is known as Emir
• The Igbo traditional council of elders is known as Aro Confederacy
• The Ogboni cult in Yoruba land was responsible for Traditional justice

Nigerian Cultural Foods

• Tuwo Shinkafa is a common dish among Hausa people
• The Igbo traditional food made from cassava is Fufu
• Banga soup is a specialty of Urhobo people
• The Yoruba are known for Ewedu soup

Nigerian Art and Craft

• The Ife bronze heads date back to 12th century
• The Nok culture is famous for its Terracotta sculptures
• The Benin bronze plaques were mainly used for Telling history

Nigerian Cultural Dance and Music

• The Bata drum is associated with Yoruba music
• The Igbo war dance is known as Atilogwu
• The Fulani are known for playing Kora musical instrument
• The Hausa praise-singing tradition is called Griots

Modern Nigerian Cultural Evolution

• The largest ethnic group in Nigeria is Hausa-Fulani
• The traditional way of communication in pre-colonial Nigeria was Town criers
• The most widely spoken language in Nigeria is Hausa
• The ethnic group known for fishing in Nigeria is Ijaw
• Majority religion in Northern Nigeria is Islam

National Symbols and Identity

• Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi designed The Nigerian national flag
• The Nigerian national anthem was first composed in 1978
• The Nigerian coat of arms features two Horses

Nigerian Cultural Values and Social Justice

• The Nigerian national motto is Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress
• Equal access to resources promotes social justice
• The principle of social justice ensures equal rights for all citizens
• Dialogue and integration can resolve indigene-settler conflicts

More Nigerian Cultural Attires

• The Igbo traditional male outfit is called Isi Agu
• The Efik women’s dance attire is Ekombi
• The Nigerian ethnic group known for tie and dye fabric is Yoruba
• The Tiv people are famous for wearing Striped black and white fabric

Nigerian Economic and Traditional Occupations

• The major occupation of the Fulani people is Cattle rearing
• The Igbo people are traditionally known for trading
• The Kanuri people are mainly farmers.
• The Niger Delta people are mainly engaged in fishing

Nigerian Traditional Religion and Beliefs

• The Yoruba god of thunder is Sango
• The Igbo god of creation is Chukwu
• The Hausa traditional belief system includes Bori spirit worship
• The Edo people worship Olokun for prosperity

Nigerian Colonial Resistance and Movements

• The Aba Women’s Riot occurred in 1929
• A major result of the Aba Women’s Riot was The abolition of colonial tax on women
• The Sokoto Jihad was led by Usman Dan Fodio
• The Egba Uprising of 1918 was against British taxation

Nigerian Independence and Political Movements

• Nigeria became a republic in 1963
• The first political party in Nigeria was NNDP
• The first Prime Minister of Nigeria was Tafawa Balewa
• The first military coup in Nigeria happened in 1966

Nigerian Contemporary Issues

• A major cause of ethnic conflict in Nigeria today is Resource control
• The MEND movement fights for the rights of the Niger Delta people
• The primary cause of farmer-herder clashes in Nigeria is Land and water resources
• The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) was created in 1973

Nigerian Legal and Justice System

• The highest court in Nigeria is Supreme Court
• The Nigerian constitution was last amended in 1999
• Agency responsible for conducting elections in Nigeria is INEC
• The Nigerian currency is The Naira

Conclusion and Final Questions

• Franca Afegbua was the first Nigerian female senator
• Louis Edet was the first indigenous Inspector General of Police
• Nigeria is a member of the African Union
• The current capital of Nigeria is Abuja
• Nigeria’s first TV station was NTA
• The official language of Nigeria is English