GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture PDF
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Olabisi Onabanjo University, Open and Distance Learning Centre
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This document is a course guide for the subject GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture, offered by the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Open and Distance Learning Centre. It covers the introduction, recommended study time, course aim, course objectives, and assessment details. The course will cover 10 study sessions and focus on culture, ethics, religion and arts in Nigeria.
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OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING CENTRE, AGO - IWOYE. GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Introduction GNS 201: Nigerian...
OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING CENTRE, AGO - IWOYE. GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Introduction GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture is a 2 Unit course for learners studying towards acquiring a Bachelor of Science, Arts, and Education degree in the University. The course is divided into 10 study sessions. It will first introduce the concept of culture, Nigerian culture and characteristics, ethics and discipline in national life, norms and values in the society, then the reorientation of moral values for development in Nigeria shall be discussed in addition to features and practice of African religion, Nigerian arts and culture in the pre-colonial times, economic self- reliance in Nigeria, and the changing self in a transitional society. Finally, the learner is introduced to the negative attitudes in the society. The course guide therefore, gives an overview of what GNS 201 is all about, the textbooks and other materials to be referenced, what you expect to know in each Unit and how to work through the course materials. Recommended Study Time This course is a 2Unit course divided into 10 study sessions. You are advised to spend at least 2 hours in studying the content of each study Unit. What you are about to learn in this course? The objective of this course is to introduce you to what culture is and to help you understand the roles culture plays in the socio-economic and political lives of Nigerians. You are also expected to be familiar with the scope of culture and its characteristics. Course Aim This course aims to introduce students to the basic concepts of culture. It is expected that the knowledge gathered in this course will enable the reader to effectively understand culture in the Nigerian context. Course Objectives Each session has specific objectives. Students are advised to understand the objectives of each session before proceeding to subsequent sessions. You should always revise the objectives of each session to ensure that you have done what is required of you at the end of the session. However, below are overall objectives of this course. On completing this course, you should be able to Page 2 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 1. Explain the concept of culture 2. Discuss Nigerian culture and its characteristics 3. Evaluate ethics and discipline in national life 4. Assess norms and values in the society 5. Discuss reorientation of moral values for development: The Nigerian experience 6. Explain African religion: Features and practice in societies 7. Discuss Nigerians arts and culture in pre-colonial time 8. Evaluate Economic self-reliance: The Nigerian situation 9. Discuss the Changing Self in a Transitional Society 10. Explain Negative Attitude Page 3 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Working through this course In order to have a thorough understanding of the course units, you will need to read, understand the contents, and practise what is discussed in this session. This course is designed to cover approximately Fifteen weeks and it will require your devoted attention. You should do the exercises in the Tutor-Marked Assignments and submit to your tutors via the Learning Management System (LMS). Recommended Texts The following texts and Internet resource links will be of enormous benefit to you in learning this course: 1. Akinjide, O. & Oyedeji, O. (1997). Nigerian people and cultures. Indiana University. ISBN 9783296434, 9789783296435 2. Akinjide, O.; David, A. & Florence, M. (2003). History and culture of Nigeria up to AD 2000. Impression 9. The University of Michigan. 3. Idowu, O. O. (1999). Citizenship status, statehood problems and political conflicts: The case of Nigeria. Nordic Journal of African Studies 8(2): 73-88 4. Otite, O. & Ogionwo, W. (ed.) Introduction to sociology. Ibadan Heinemann 5. en.m.wikipedia.or/wiki/cultureofNigeria Assessment There are two aspects to the assessment of this course. First, there are tutor-marked assignments and second, the written examination. Therefore, you are expected to take note of the facts, information and problem solving gathered during the course. The tutor-marked assignments must be submitted to your tutor for formal assessment according to the deadline given. The assignment submitted will account for 30% of your total score. At the end of the course, you will need to sit for a final written examination. This examination will account for 70% of your total score. You will be required to submit some assignments by uploading them to GNS 201page on the LMS. Page 4 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Tutor-Marked Assignment (TMA) There are TMAs in this course. You need to submit all the TMAs. The best 10 will therefore be counted. After the completion of each assignment, you should forward it to your tutor as soon as possible, and make sure that it gets to your tutor on or before the stipulated deadline. If for any reason you cannot complete your assignment on time, contact your tutor before the assignment is due for submission for the possibility of extension. Extension will not be granted after the deadline, unless on extraordinary cases. Final Examination and Grading The final examination for GNS 201 will last for a period not more than 2hours and has a value of 70% of the total course grade. The examination will consist of questions which reflect the Self- Assessment Questions (SAQs), In-text Questions (ITQs) and tutor marked assignments that you have previously encountered. Furthermore, all areas of the course will be examined. It would be better to use the time between finishing the last unit and sitting for the examination to revise the entire course. You may find it useful to review your TMAs and comment on them before the examination. The final examination covers information from all parts of the course. Most examinations will be conducted via Pen-On-Paper (POP) and Computer Based Testing (CBT) mode. Tutors and Tutorials There are few hours of face-to-face tutorial provided in support of this course. You will be notified of the dates, time, and location together with the name and phone number of your tutor as soon as you are allocated a tutorial group. Your tutor will mark and comment on your assignments, keep a close watch on your progress and on any difficulties you may encounter in order to provide assistance to you during the course. You must submit your tutor marked assignment to your tutor well before the due date. At least two working days are required for this purpose. They will be marked by your tutor and returned as soon as possible via the same means of submission. Do not hesitate to contact your tutor by telephone, e-mail, or discussion board if you need help. Contact your tutor if: You do not understand any part of the study units or the assigned readings. You have difficulty with the self-test or exercise. Page 5 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture You have questions or problems with an assignment, with your tutor’s comments on an assignment or with the grading of an assignment. You should endeavour to attend the tutorials. This is the only opportunity to have face-to-face contact with your tutor and ask questions which are answered instantly. You can raise any problem encountered in the course of your study. To gain the maximum benefit from the course tutorials, have some questions handy before attending them. You will learn a lot from participating actively in discussions. Page 6 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Table of Contents Table of Contents...................................................................................................................... 7 Study Session 1: The Concept of Culture...............................................................................28 Introduction..........................................................................................................................28 Learning Outcomes for Study Session 1...............................................................................28 1.1 Overview of the Concept of Culture...........................................................................29 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.1............................................................................................29 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.1..............................................................................................29 1.2 Definition of Culture..................................................................................................29 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.2............................................................................................30 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.2..............................................................................................30 1.3 Qualities of Culture....................................................................................................30 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.3............................................................................................31 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.3..............................................................................................31 1.4 Functions of Culture...................................................................................................31 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.4............................................................................................32 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.4..............................................................................................32 1.5 Culture Concepts........................................................................................................32 1.5.1 Culture, Diffusion....................................................................................................33 1.5.2 Subculture................................................................................................................34 Page 7 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.5............................................................................................34 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.5..............................................................................................34 Summary of Study Session 1................................................................................................35 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 1.......................................................36 SAQ 1.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.1)............................................................................36 SAQ 1.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.2)............................................................................36 SAQ 1.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.3)............................................................................36 SAQ 1.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.4)............................................................................36 SAQ 1.5 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.5)............................................................................36 Glossary of Terms................................................................................................................37 Study Session 2: Mapping the Nigerian Cultures and Their Characteristics............................38 Introduction..........................................................................................................................38 Learning Outcomes for Study Session 2...............................................................................38 2.1 History and evolution of Nigeria................................................................................39 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 2.1............................................................................................40 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 2.1..............................................................................................40 2.2 Nigerian Society and Culture..........................................................................................40 2.2.1 Language in Nigeria.................................................................................................40 2.2.2 Religious System in Nigeria.....................................................................................40 2.2.3 Family Structure in Nigeria......................................................................................42 Page 8 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 2.2.4 Gender Roles and Relations in Nigeria.....................................................................43 2.2.5 Markets and Products in Nigeria..............................................................................44 2.2.6 Hierarchy.................................................................................................................44 2.2.7 Meeting and Greeting People...................................................................................44 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 2.2............................................................................................45 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 2.2..............................................................................................45 2.3 Nigerian Communication Style...............................................................................45 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 2.3............................................................................................46 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 2.3..............................................................................................46 Summary of Study Session 2................................................................................................46 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session2........................................................47 SAQ 2.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 2.1)............................................................................47 SAQ 2.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 2.2)............................................................................47 SAQ 2.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 2.3)............................................................................47 Glossary of Terms................................................................................................................48 Study Session 3: Ethics and Discipline in National Life.........................................................49 Introduction..........................................................................................................................49 Learning outcomes for Study Session 3................................................................................49 3.1 Ethics and Discipline..................................................................................................50 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 3.1............................................................................................50 Page 9 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture In-Text Answers (ITAs) 3.1..............................................................................................50 3.2 Definition and Clarification of Terms.........................................................................51 3.2.1 Ethics or Moral Philosophy.................................................................................51 3.2.2 Ethics and Morality..................................................................................................51 3.2.3 The Scientific Study of Morality..............................................................................51 3.2.4 Moral Phenomena on the Level of the Individual.....................................................51 3.2.5 Moral Phenomena in the Structure and Functioning of a Society.........................52 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 3.2............................................................................................52 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 3.2..............................................................................................52 3.3 The Philosophical Study of Morality - Ethics.............................................................53 3.3.1 Normative Ethics.....................................................................................................53 3.3.2 Analytic Ethics or Meta-Ethics.................................................................................53 3.3.3 The Relation between Analytic and Normative Ethics..............................................54 3.3.4 The Need for a Rationally Justified Morality............................................................55 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 3.3............................................................................................56 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 3.3..............................................................................................56 3.4 Discipline: Conceptual Clarification...........................................................................56 3.4.1 The Social Implications of Discipline in Morality................................................57 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 3.4............................................................................................58 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 3.4..............................................................................................58 Page 10 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 3.5 Essential Elements of Individual Morality in National Life.........................................58 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 3.5............................................................................................60 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 3.5..............................................................................................61 3.6 Essential Elements of Social Morality........................................................................61 3.6.1 Social Justice.......................................................................................................61 3.6.2 Individual Rights.................................................................................................61 3.6.3 Natural Rights.....................................................................................................62 3.6.4 Equality...............................................................................................................62 3.6.5 General Welfare..................................................................................................63 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 3.6............................................................................................63 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 3.6..............................................................................................64 Summary of Study Session 3................................................................................................64 Glossary of Terms................................................................................................................65 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 3.......................................................66 SAQ 3.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 3.1)............................................................................66 SAQ 3.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 3.2)............................................................................66 3.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 3.3).....................................................................................66 3.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 3.4).....................................................................................66 3.5 (Tests Learning Outcome 3.5).....................................................................................66 3.6 (Tests Learning Outcome 3.6).....................................................................................66 Page 11 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Study Session 4: Norms and Values in the Society.................................................................67 Introduction..........................................................................................................................67 Learning outcomes for Study Section 4.................................................................................67 4.1 Norms and Values......................................................................................................68 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 4.1............................................................................................68 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 4.1..............................................................................................68 4.2 Elements in Culture....................................................................................................68 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 4.2............................................................................................71 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 4.2..............................................................................................71 4.3 Perspectives on Norms and Values.............................................................................71 4.3.1 Social Norms.......................................................................................................71 4.3.2 Folkways.............................................................................................................72 4.3.3 Mores..................................................................................................................72 4.3.4 Laws...................................................................................................................72 4.3.5 Values.................................................................................................................73 4.3.6 Rituals.................................................................................................................73 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 4.3............................................................................................73 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 4.3..............................................................................................73 Summary of Study Session 4................................................................................................74 Glossary of Terms................................................................................................................75 Page 12 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 4.......................................................76 SAQ 4.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 4.1)............................................................................76 SAQ 4.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 4.2)............................................................................76 SAQ 4.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 4.3)............................................................................76 Study Session 5: Reorientation of Moral Values for Development The Nigerian Experience....77 Introduction..........................................................................................................................77 Learning outcomes for Study Session 5................................................................................78 5.1 Moral Values..............................................................................................................79 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 5.1............................................................................................79 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 5.1..............................................................................................79 5.2 Conceptual Clarification.............................................................................................79 5.2.1 Re-orientation.....................................................................................................79 5.2.2 Morality..............................................................................................................79 5.2.3 Values.................................................................................................................80 5.2.4 Development.......................................................................................................80 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 5.2............................................................................................80 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 5.2..............................................................................................80 5.3 Moral Problems Plaguing Nigeria...............................................................................81 5.3.1 Crime and Violence.............................................................................................81 5.3.2 Corruption...........................................................................................................81 Page 13 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 5.3.3 Perversion of Justice............................................................................................81 5.3.4 Cultism...............................................................................................................82 5.3.5 Drug abuse, addiction and trafficking..................................................................82 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 5.3............................................................................................82 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 5.3..............................................................................................82 5.4 Causes and Effects of Moral Problems in Nigeria.......................................................83 5.4.1 Break down of the Family unit/lack of parental guidance:...................................83 5.4.2 Materialism.........................................................................................................83 5.4.3 Mental Set...........................................................................................................83 5.4.4 Effects of Moral Problems...................................................................................83 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 5.4............................................................................................84 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 5.4..............................................................................................85 5.5 Moral Values and Religion.........................................................................................85 5.5.1 Respect for Elders/Constituted Authority............................................................85 5.5.2 Truthfulness and Honesty....................................................................................85 5.5.3 Impartiality.........................................................................................................86 5.5.4 Loyalty/Patriotism...............................................................................................86 5.5.5 Justice.................................................................................................................86 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 5.5............................................................................................86 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 5.5..............................................................................................87 Page 14 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 5.6 Moral Values: Catalyst for Development....................................................................87 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 5.6............................................................................................87 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 5.6..............................................................................................87 Summary of Study Session 5................................................................................................88 Glossary of Terms................................................................................................................89 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 5.......................................................90 SAQ 5.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 5.1)............................................................................90 SAQ 5.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 5.2)............................................................................90 SAQ 5.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 5.3)............................................................................90 SAQ 5.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 5.4)............................................................................90 SAQ 5.5 (Tests Learning Outcome 5.5)............................................................................90 SAQ 5.6 (Tests Learning Outcome 5.6)............................................................................90 Study Session 6: African Religion: Features and Practice in Societies....................................91 Introduction..........................................................................................................................91 Learning outcomes for Study Session 6................................................................................91 6.1 African Religion.........................................................................................................92 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 6.1............................................................................................92 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 6.1..............................................................................................92 6.2 The Nature of African Religion..................................................................................92 6.2.1 The Features of African Religion.........................................................................93 Page 15 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 6.2.2 Belief in God.......................................................................................................94 6.2.3 Belief in Divinities and Spirits.............................................................................97 6.2.4 Belief in the Cult of Ancestors............................................................................98 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 6.2............................................................................................99 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 6.2..............................................................................................99 6.3 Africans' Idea of Partial Re-Incarnation......................................................................99 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 6.3............................................................................................99 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 6.3..............................................................................................99 6.4 Belief in the Practice of Magic and Medicine.............................................................99 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 6.4.......................................................................................... 101 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 6.4............................................................................................ 101 6.5 African religious practices: rites of passage.............................................................. 101 6.5.1 Pregnancy, Birth and Childhood........................................................................... 101 6. 5.2 Puberty and Initiation Rites............................................................................... 102 6.5.3 Marriage........................................................................................................... 103 6.5.4 Death and The hereafter.................................................................................... 104 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 6.5.......................................................................................... 105 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 6.5............................................................................................ 105 6.6 African Religion and Modern Challenges................................................................. 105 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 6.6.......................................................................................... 105 Page 16 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture In-Text Answers (ITAs) 6.6............................................................................................ 106 Summary of Study Session 6.............................................................................................. 106 Glossary of Terms.............................................................................................................. 107 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 6.....................................................108 SAQ 6.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 6.1)..........................................................................108 SAQ 6.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 6.2)..........................................................................108 SAQ 6.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 6.3)..........................................................................108 SAQ 6.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 6.4)..........................................................................108 SAQ 6.5 (Tests Learning Outcome 6.5)..........................................................................108 SAQ 6.6 (Tests Learning Outcome 6.6)..........................................................................108 Study Session 7: Nigeria’s Arts and Culture in Pre-Colonial Times................................. 109 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 109 Learning outcomes for Study Session 7.............................................................................. 109 7.1 Overview of Nigeria Cultures.................................................................................... 110 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 7.1.......................................................................................... 111 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 7.1............................................................................................ 111 7.2 The Meaning of Arts................................................................................................ 111 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 7.2.......................................................................................... 111 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 7.2............................................................................................ 111 7.3 The Concept of Culture............................................................................................ 111 Page 17 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture In-Text Questions (ITQs) 7.3.......................................................................................... 112 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 7.3............................................................................................ 112 7.4 Art and Culture: A Siamese...................................................................................... 113 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 7.4.......................................................................................... 113 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 7.4............................................................................................ 113 7.5 Arts and Culture in Pre-Colonial Nigeria.................................................................. 114 7.5.1 Igbo-Ukwu........................................................................................................ 115 7.5.2 The Nok Culture................................................................................................ 116 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 7.5.......................................................................................... 116 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 7.5............................................................................................ 116 Summary of Study Session 7.............................................................................................. 117 Glossary of Terms.............................................................................................................. 118 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 7.....................................................119 SAQ 7.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 7.1)..........................................................................119 SAQ 7.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 7.2)..........................................................................119 SAQ 7.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 7.3)..........................................................................119 SAQ 7.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 7.4)..........................................................................119 SAQ 7.5 (Tests Learning Outcome 7.5)..........................................................................119 Study Session 8: Economic Self-Reliance: The Nigerian Situation................................... 120 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 120 Page 18 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Learning outcomes for Study Session 8.............................................................................. 120 8.1 The Issue of Self-Reliance and State Owned Enterprises in Nigeria............................ 121 8.1.1 State Owned Enterprises.................................................................................... 121 8.1.2 Challenges of State-Owned Enterprises (SOES) In Nigeria............................... 122 8.1.3 The Performance of the State-Owned Enterprises in the Achievement of Economic Self Reliance..................................................................................................................123 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 8.1.......................................................................................... 125 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 8.1............................................................................................ 125 8.2 Policies, Programmes and Efforts of Government to Achieve Economic Self-Reliance For and in Nigeria............................................................................................................... 125 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 8.2.......................................................................................... 126 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 8.2............................................................................................ 126 8.3 Factors Militating Against Economic Self-Reliance in Nigeria................................. 127 8.3.1 Corruption......................................................................................................... 127 8.3.2 Nigerian Factor................................................................................................. 127 8.3.3 Frequent Change of Policies.............................................................................. 127 8.3.4 Multiplicity of Economic Advisers.................................................................... 128 8.3.5 Lack of Continuity of Policies........................................................................... 128 8.3.6 Low-Level of Technology.................................................................................128 8.3.7 Lack of infrastructure........................................................................................ 128 8.3.8 Political instability............................................................................................ 128 Page 19 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture In-Text Questions (ITQs) 8.3.......................................................................................... 129 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 8.3............................................................................................ 129 8.4 Suggested Ways to Achieve Economic Self-Reliance in Nigeria.............................. 129 8.4.1 Accountability................................................................................................... 129 8.4.2 The Empowerment and Independence of Anti-Corruption Agencies....................... 129 8.4.3 Renewal of Ethical Standards............................................................................129 8.4.4 Consistency in Policy Formulation and Implementation.................................... 130 8.4.5 Home-Grown Technology................................................................................. 130 8.4.6 Entrepreneurship...............................................................................................130 8.4.7. The Political Will and Commitment of Government to Economic Self-Reliance... 130 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 8.4.......................................................................................... 130 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 8.4............................................................................................ 130 Summary of Study Session 8.............................................................................................. 131 Glossary of Terms.............................................................................................................. 132 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 8.....................................................133 SAQ 8.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 8.1)..........................................................................133 SAQ 8.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 8.2)..........................................................................133 SAQ 8.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 8.3)..........................................................................133 SAQ 8.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 8.4)..........................................................................133 Study Session 9: The Changing Self in a Transitional Society.............................................. 134 Page 20 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Introduction........................................................................................................................ 134 Learning outcomes for Study Session 9.............................................................................. 134 9.1 The Concept of Self and Self as a Constant Flux...................................................... 135 9.1.1 What exactly is the self'?................................................................................... 135 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 9.1.......................................................................................... 136 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 9.1............................................................................................ 136 9.2 Chaos and Order: Two Sides of the Same Coin........................................................ 137 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 9.2.......................................................................................... 138 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 9.2............................................................................................ 138 9.3 Collective Self/ Collective Identity...........................................................................138 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 9.3.......................................................................................... 141 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 9.3............................................................................................ 141 9.4 Change and Theme of Loss in a Transitional Society................................................ 141 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 9.4.......................................................................................... 142 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 9.4............................................................................................ 142 9.5 Implementing Social Change in Nigeria................................................................... 142 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 9.5.......................................................................................... 145 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 9.5............................................................................................ 145 Summary of Study Session 9.............................................................................................. 146 Glossary of Terms.............................................................................................................. 147 Page 21 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 9.....................................................148 SAQ 9.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 9.1)..........................................................................148 SAQ 9.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 9.2)..........................................................................148 SAQ 9.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 9.3)..........................................................................148 SAQ 9.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 9.4)..........................................................................148 SAQ 9.5 (Tests Learning Outcome 9.5)..........................................................................148 Study Session 10: Negative Attitude.................................................................................... 149 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 149 Learning outcomes for Study Session 10............................................................................ 149 10.1 Definition and Types of Attitude........................................................................... 150 10.1.1 The Miserable Type............................................................................................. 150 10.1.2 Silent Killer.......................................................................................................... 150 10.1.3 Drama queen................................................................................................. 151 10.1.4 Woe is me...................................................................................................... 151 10.1.5 The Paranoid Type......................................................................................... 151 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 10.1........................................................................................ 151 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 10.1.......................................................................................... 151 10.2 Kinds of Negative Attitude among Students.......................................................... 152 10.2.1 Examination Malpractices................................................................................. 152 10.2.2 Nature and Type of Examination Malpractices among Students......................... 152 Page 22 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 10.2.3 Student and Cybercrime................................................................................. 153 10.2.4 Cultism: Reasons, Causes and Solution................................................................ 153 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 10.2........................................................................................ 155 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 10.2.......................................................................................... 155 10.3 Implications of Cultist Activities amongst Students.............................................. 155 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 10.3........................................................................................ 156 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 10.3.......................................................................................... 156 10.4 Consequences of a Negative Attitude.................................................................... 156 10.4.1 Negative Attitude Shortens one’s Life.................................................................. 156 10.4.2 Such Attitude Creates Unpleasant Future....................................................... 156 10.4.3 It Harms Others................................................................................................. 156 10.4.4 Such Attitude Produces Negative Effects....................................................... 157 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 10.5........................................................................................ 157 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 10.5.......................................................................................... 157 10.5 The Effect of Negative Thinking and how it can be changed................................. 157 In-Text Questions (ITQs) 10.5........................................................................................ 158 In-Text Answers (ITAs) 10.7.......................................................................................... 158 Summary of Study Session 10............................................................................................ 159 Glossary of Terms.............................................................................................................. 160 Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 10................................................... 161 Page 23 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture SAQ 10.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 10.1)...................................................................... 161 SAQ 10.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 10.2)...................................................................... 161 SAQ 10.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 10.3)...................................................................... 161 SAQ 10.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 10.4)...................................................................... 161 SAQ 10.5 (Tests Learning Outcome 10.5)...................................................................... 161 References.......................................................................................................................... 162 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions.................................................................................. 167 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 1............................................... 167 SAQ 1.1..........................................................................................................................167 SAQ 1.2..........................................................................................................................167 SAQ 1.3..........................................................................................................................167 SAQ 1.4..........................................................................................................................167 SAQ 1.5..........................................................................................................................167 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 2................................................... 168 SAQ 2.1..........................................................................................................................168 SAQ 2.2..........................................................................................................................168 SAQ2.3...........................................................................................................................168 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 3................................................... 168 SAQ 3.1..........................................................................................................................168 SAQ 3.2..........................................................................................................................168 Page 24 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture SAQ 3.3..........................................................................................................................168 SAQ 3.4..........................................................................................................................169 SAQ 3.5..........................................................................................................................169 SAQ 3.6..........................................................................................................................169 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 4................................................... 169 SAQ 4.1..........................................................................................................................169 SAQ 4.2..........................................................................................................................169 SAQ 4.3..........................................................................................................................170 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 5................................................... 170 SAQ 5.1..........................................................................................................................170 SAQ 5.2..........................................................................................................................170 SAQ 5.3..........................................................................................................................170 SAQ 5.4..........................................................................................................................170 SAQ 5.5..........................................................................................................................171 SAQ 5.6..........................................................................................................................171 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 6................................................... 171 SAQ 6.1..........................................................................................................................171 SAQ 6.2..........................................................................................................................171 SAQ 6.3..........................................................................................................................172 SAQ 6.4..........................................................................................................................172 Page 25 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture SAQ 6.5..........................................................................................................................172 SAQ 6.6..........................................................................................................................172 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 7................................................... 172 SAQ 7.1..........................................................................................................................172 SAQ 7.2..........................................................................................................................173 SAQ7.3...........................................................................................................................173 SAQ 7.4..........................................................................................................................173 SAQ 7.5..........................................................................................................................173 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 8................................................... 173 SAQ 8.1..........................................................................................................................173 SAQ8.2...........................................................................................................................174 SAQ 8.3..........................................................................................................................174 SAQ8.4...........................................................................................................................174 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 9................................................... 174 SAQ9.1...........................................................................................................................175 SAQ9.2...........................................................................................................................175 SAQ9.3...........................................................................................................................175 SAQ 9.4..........................................................................................................................175 SAQ 9.5..........................................................................................................................175 Notes on Self-Assessment Questions for Study Session 10................................................. 175 Page 26 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture SAQ 10.1........................................................................................................................ 175 SAQ 10.2........................................................................................................................ 175 SAQ 10.3........................................................................................................................ 176 SAQ 10.4........................................................................................................................ 176 SAQ 10.5........................................................................................................................ 176 SAQ 9.4………………………………………………………………………………. SAQ 9.5…………………………………………………………………………….. Notes on SAQs for Study Session 10 SAQ 10.1………………………………………………………………………………. SAQ 10.2……………………………………………………………..,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,…. SAQ 10.3………………………………………………………………………… SAQ 10.4…………………………………………………………………………. SAQ 10.5…………………………………………………………………………… Page 27 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Study Session 1: The Concept of Culture Introduction Culture is often used among sociologist. People sometimes think of culture to be equal to higher things of the mind, for instance, arts, literature and painting. But culture seems to go beyond the activities undertaken by man. Culture actually is a way of life of a people, societies or group which determines and directs peoples dressing, eating pattern, marriages, religious ceremonies, language and family life. Societies are known to unite due to socially organized relationship linked to culture. Therefore, without culture there will be no society in existence and without society there will have been no culture in existence. In this study session 1, you will be introduced to culture, taking into consideration its qualities, functions and concepts relating to it. Learning Outcomes for Study Session 1 At the end of this session, you should be able to: 1.1 Discuss the overview of Culture Concepts 1.2 Define or explain Culture 1.3 Mention the Qualities of Culture 1.4 Discuss the functions of Culture 1.5 Explain Culture Concepts Page 28 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 1.1 Overview of the Concept of Culture Culture like most concepts in social sciences, is confronted by the chaos of definitions created by variations in human perceptions of the phenomenon. But Silverman (1983) noted, it is not a mere exercise in pedantry. It represents a parsimonious statement of theoretical stance involving selection of primary features that are related and analytically essential. Therefore, it is imperative that we join in flooding the definitional theatre of culture. Meanwhile, the human application of the concept of culture in life contributes much in creating crisis in the definition of culture. The use of the term by social scientists remarkably differs from the impersonal conversational use of it by laymen during interaction. To social scientists, particularly anthropologists and sociologists; culture means the bundle of learned and shared patterns of behaviour and understanding concerning the meaning and value of things. Ideas, emotions, and actions facilitated by language and communication in a social group. Yet, to some eccentrics among social scientists, culture refers to the learned portion of human behaviour including the ways of thinking, feeling, and acting (Odetola & Ademola, 1985). In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.1 Culture is facilitated by ____ and ___________in a social group In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.1 Language / Communication 1.2 Definition of Culture Redfield (1940 & 1941) refers to culture- as "an organization of conventional understandings persisting, through tradition". To him, culture implies shared tradition inherited from the forebears and here it can be colloquial or seen as a way of living. Of course, deviating from the conventional way of doing things may in a way be a reflection of improper socialization of the deviant. The definition is sociological and thus may not produce an insolvent definition of scientific standing. More so, that socialization process and indeed the value itself differ from culture to culture. Page 29 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture i. White (1947) defines culture as the organization of phenomena such as acts - patterns of behaviour, objects, tools and implements and their outputs, ideas, belief, and knowledge and sentiments-attitude and values that are dependent upon the use of symbols. ii. The most widely accepted definition of culture is the one offered by Taylor (l891). He says that “Culture is that complex art, mortals, law, customs and any other capability acquired by man as a member of society". This definition included material and nonmaterial aspects of human life. iii. Culture helps in the explanation of strange happenings, mysteries, folktales, folkways, science, technology, education, literature, arts, and dates among others. It constitutes part of the learned behaviour that is shared and thus helps in predicting others and in defining expectations. So, culture dictates and defines the way of life of a people and tends to influence their life beyond their immediate environment (Chinoy, 1961; Kukah,.2007). iv. Culture is made up of two component parts namely the material and immaterial parts. The 'material aspects of culture includes the whole artifacts, and all other visible products of the society while the non-material aspects consist of the laws, belief system, language, philosophy, ideology, political system, family pattern, music, ceremonies, literature and folktales. They (material and non-material aspects of culture) exist to complement each other. Sometimes, some artworks are explanations or expression of folk tales or folk belief neither of the components can exist in isolation. In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.2 Culture consists of material and non-material parts. Explain? In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.2 Culture consists of material part which includes artifacts and all other visible products of the society. While non-material part of culture include laws, belief system, language, family pattern, political system, music, ceremonies, philosophies and ideologies 1.3 Qualities of Culture For an existing system to qualify as culture, it must possess some obviously inalienable qualities as indicated below: Page 30 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture (1.) Culture is learned through symbolic and meaningful interactions with other people in a social setting. (2.) Culture is transmitted from one generation to another and therefore is cumulative. As society lasts, the culture continues to enrich as each generation improves and makes its additions to the existing culture. (3.) Culture has social quality hence members of a group share certain expectations that take normative quality. Culture is really a group affair. (4.) Culture provides ideological quality which every member is expected to aspire to conform. It defines the ideal way of doing things and contrary behaviour is viewed as deviance and sanctioned, (5.) Culture provides ways and means of satisfying individual and group needs whether biological or social. For instance, culture defines marriage as the acceptable means of satisfying urge for love and having children. (6.) Culture is adaptive particularly to the social environment and that enables it to satisfy all the needs of the people. (7.) Cultural elements are integrative. Each part of it ensures unity to maintain the unity and good of the whole culture. The qualities of culture include its universality. It is unique in that each people's culture is peculiar to them but within them they contain certain elements found in other cultures. (8.) Culture is dynamic; it changes over time and across generations. It is with all these qualities that culture performs some vital functions for the people. In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.3 Culture is regarded as dynamic because ______________ In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.3 It changes over periods and times across generations. 1.4 Functions of Culture The Following are function of culture: Page 31 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture i. Culture defines situations either as joyful or mournful, war or peace, working or eating or playful. So situations are seen from the angle of culture. One cannot define or interpret situations outside the cultural system. Even sickness is culturally defined, so is therapy. ii. Culture defines and explains myths, legends, symbols, and the supernatural. The myths, legends and the supernatural beliefs and practices form the major variables in the tradition of a people. iii. Culture defines the attitudes, values, norms, and goals which the people as individuals and groups learn consciously and unconsciously through socialization and observation. iv. Culture spells the behaviour patterns in the society. The individuals don't need to involve in trial and error or in an unguarded improvise because culture provides ready-made patterns of behaviours for him or her. That is, culture defines behaviour and makes it predictable. v. Culture moulds individual's behaviours and national character. The system of norms and values which gives characteristic feeling to culture is called 'ethos' which is seemingly difficult to give a precise definition. vi. Culture defines the ways of life of a people and therefore no society will be studied and understood without examining deeply the culture of the people. It defines status, roles, institutions, and organizations that exist and operate in a particular society. It is the bedrock of every society’s socio-economic and religious life. In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.4 Mention two functions of culture In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.4 i. Culture defines the ways of life of a people in a society ii. Culture spells out the behaviour pattern in a society 1.5 Culture Concepts Cultural Traits are the smallest elements by which a culture can be described. It is among these traits that similarities and differences among cultures are identified. For instance, the African people have respect for elders and the Yoruba's demonstrate their own respect to the elders by prostrating on the ground for them, A number of traits put together into a meaningful whole called Page 32 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture culture complex and complexes make up culture pattern around a central interest or theme from which they derive their meaning (Odetola and Ademola, 1985).. The following are basic concepts in culture: Culture Shock: This is a feeling of anxiety, loneliness, and confusion that people sometimes experience when they first arrive in another country or society. Culture Change: In the qualities of culture, we said it is dynamic which implies that it Changes over time and space. Naturally, the changes and the rates of change differ from one area to another and from one society to another. Some factors are responsible for the changes and the differences in the rates of change among Societies. The factors include war, disaster, epidemics, invention, discovery, and contact with another culture, colonialism, and education among others (Odetola & Ademola (1985); Odetola, Oloruntimehin & Aweda (1983). Culture Lag: When inconsistencies within a cultural system are as a result of differences in rate at which different cultural elements change it is called cultural lag. It is also a situation in which social change lags behind the possibilities open by inventions and discoveries. (Madubuike, 2003; Odetola & Ademola (l985). 1.5.1 Culture, Diffusion This refers to the transmission and assimilation of culture traits from one culture to another. Islamic religion and its attendant Quran education first got into West Africa through the process of diffusion in 9th century. It is often the inevitable results of contact between two or more cultures. Page 33 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 1.5.2 Subculture A distinctive culture that is shared by a group within a society is called a sub-culture. Groups exist as smaller parts of the society and these groups form several sub-cultures in the society. In-Text Questions (ITQs) 1.5 What is culture diffusion? ______________ In-Text Answers (ITAs) 1.5 This refers to the transmission of culture trait from one culture to another. Page 34 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Summary of Study Session 1 1. The concept of culture to social scientists, particularly anthropologists and sociologists; culture means the bundle of learned and shared patterns of behaviour and understanding concerning the meaning and value of things. Ideas, emotions, and actions facilitated by language and communication in a social group. 2. Culture helps in the explanation of strange happenings, mysteries, folktales, folkways, science, technology, education, literature, arts, and dates among others. It constitutes part of the learned behaviour that is shared and thus helps in predicting others and in defining expectations. 3. Culture possesses some obviously inalienable qualities. 4. Culture performs the functions of. (1) Defining situations either as joyful or mournful (2.) explaining myths, legends, symbols and the supernatural (3.) defining the attitudes, values, norms and goals which the people as individuals and groups learn consciously and unconsciously through socialization and observation (4.)Spelling out the behaviour patterns in the society. (5.) Moulding individual's behaviours and national character. (6.) Defining the ways of life of a people and therefore, no society will be studied without examining the culture of the people. 5. There are basic concepts in culture, namely: culture shock, culture diffusion, culture lag. Culture change and subculture Page 35 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 1 Having completed this study session, you can measure how well you have achieved its learning outcomes by answering the following questions. You can check your answers with the Notes on Self-Assessment Questions at the end of this Session. SAQ 1.1 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.1) Explain the concept of culture SAQ 1.2 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.2) What is culture? SAQ 1.3 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.3) State the qualities that are associated with culture SAQ 1.4 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.4) Culture performs certain functions in the society.Discuss SAQ 1.5 (Tests Learning Outcome 1.5) Differentiate between culture shock, culture change and culture lag. Page 36 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Glossary of Terms Culture: Culture is that complex art, mortals, law, customs, and any other capability acquired by man as a member of society". This definition included material and nonmaterial aspects of human life Cultural Trait: Cultural Traits are the smallest elements by which a culture can be described. It is among these traits that similarities and differences among cultures are identified. Belief: These are words that people in the society holds to be true Myths: A traditional story especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining a natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or event Values: These are culturally spelt out principles of desirability in the areas of goodness, beauty, discipline, and interaction that guides social interaction. Folkways: These are norms for routine or casual interaction. Norms: These are rules and expectations by which a society directs the conduct and behaviour of its members. Page 37 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Study Session 2: Mapping the Nigerian Cultures and Their Characteristics Introduction According to Onwubiko (1973), when West Africa first had contact with the Europeans, during 15th and the 19th centuries, Nigeria was not in existence. The Portuguese were said to be the first to make a planned, systematic, and effective exploration of the West African Coasts in modern times. This was made during the renaissance period when young men were interested in knowledge about the world and their efforts to find new routes to Asia. When they set their foot on the soil of a state now called Nigeria, they interacted with the inhabitants in small language groups and not as a larger group as Nigeria. They undertook business with them as separate groups. But the entrant of these explorers made it possible for these groups to start getting in contact with one another as a result of trade centre’s evolving along the Coastal areas. These interactions propelled the movement and development of European trade around the Coast brought the Brass and Bonny in Rivers State, the old and new Calabar on the Niger Delta map, Elmina, Accra, Cape Coast on the Islamic religion then the Royal Niger Company after the conquest of Etsu Nupe, Ilorin, Bida, Gwadu and Sokoto. However, in 1890, the Royal Niger Company Charter was abrogated and Sir Fredrick Lugard was appointed to establish a formal British control over Northern and Southern Nigeria. In 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorate was known as Nigeria, and subsequently had independence in 1960. In this study session 2, you will be introduced to the birth, characteristics, variations and the dynamic nature of Nigeria. Learning Outcomes for Study Session 2 At the end of this session, you should be able to: 2.1 Explain the history and evolution of Nigerian 2.2 Discuss appropriately the Nigerian Society and their culture 2.3 Discuss the Communication Styles of Nigerians Page 38 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 2.1 History and evolution of Nigeria The history of Nigeria dates back to early 1100 B.C. when settlers were trading across the Middle East of Africa. There were several civilized ancient African who settled in the Area now called, Nigeria. These kingdoms were the Niri, the Benin Empire, and the Oyo Empire. In 1068AD, Islamic religion got into Borno Empire and Hausa state around 1385AD while Christianity came into the nation now called Nigeria in the 15th Century, Lagos, however, was invaded after conflicts escalated among different ethnic groups as a result of slave trading which disrupted every other trade in 1851.This crisis led to the British forces annexing her in 1865. Nigeria then became a British protectorate in 1901, while her colonization existed till 1960 when she got her independence. Nigeria first became a republic in 1963. Nigeria went through a coup d’état three years after and in 1967 a Republic of Biafra was formed by Lt. Col. Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu on May 29, 1967 leading to three-year civil war which ended in 1970. Nigeria became a republic again after a new constitution was written in 1979 which was put aside as a result of the military take over again for a period of another four years. During this period, the then military president planned a new republic to be established in 1993. The presidential election was finally held on June 12, 1993 with the inauguration of the new president scheduled to take place August 2, 1993, the eighth anniversary of President Babaginda’s coming to power. The historic June 12, 1993 presidential elections, which most observers said is Nigeria’s fairest election, indicated in the early results that businessman M.K.O. Abiola won the election. However, on June 23, 1993, General Babaginda, using several pending lawsuits as delay tactics, cancelled the election, throwing Nigeria into confusion and chaos. After the annulment of the election, General Babaginda was forced to hand over to Ernest Shonekan, a popular businessman in a transitional arrangement because he was not having any relationship with any political party until elections scheduled for February 1994. When the country was sliding more into chaos during Shonekan administration, the then defence Minister Sani Abacha assumed power and forced Shonekan to resign on November 17, 1993; General Abacha ruled maximally for five years and died of heart failure on June 8, 1998 and was replaced by General Abdulsalami Abubukar who executed the return of the country a new civilian rule. Therefore, the beginning of democracy in Nigeria on May 29 1999 ended 16 years of consecutive military rule. Page 39 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture During these periods, Nigeria has witnessed the creation of states from the original zoning of the nation. For example, in 1987, 7 states were created in addition to the already existing 12 states, making 19 states, in 1991, 2 more were added giving a total of 21 states. In 1992, Nigeria had 30 states and three years after, precisely 1995, Nigeria become a nation with 36 states. In-Text Questions (ITQs) 2.1 Nigeria has ______________ states In-Text Answers (ITAs) 2.1 36 2.2 Nigerian Society and Culture 2.2.1 Language in Nigeria The number of languages currently estimated and catalogued in Nigeria is 52l (Andah, 1988). This number includes 5l0 living languages, second languages without native speakers and 9 extinct languages. The official language of Nigeria is English, which facilitates the cultural and linguistic unity of the country's post-colonisation by the British. The major native languages, spoken in Nigeria represent three major families of African languages the majority is Niger-Congo languages, such as Yoruba, lgbo and Hausa languages which is Alto-Asiatic and Kanuri, spoken in the north east primarily in Borno State, as a member of the Nilo-Saharan family. 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. English as a first language, however, remains an exclusive preserve of a small minority of the country`s urban elite, and is not spoken at all in some rural areas, although, there could be a variation of English called 'Pidgin English' or ‘Broken English. 2.2.2 Religious System in Nigeria Nigeria is also a country of religious diversity. In fact, religious difference is one of the central dimensions of Nigeria's cultural diversity and a key aspect of place. The main religious division within the country is that between Christians and Muslims. These two broad groups compose nearly 90 percent of the entire population. There are several other religions in Nigeria. The Page 40 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture constitution guarantees religious freedom, Religion is an important aspect of place in Nigeria for several reasons. First, religion shapes people's systems of values and beliefs. This is important in defining cultural and social behaviours and norms in a particular place. For example, things like gender roles, banking practices, and attitudes toward education are all influenced by religion. There are important differences between Islamic places and Christian places, although it is critical not to overestimate the influence of religion in People’s lives. Not all Nigerians are deeply religious. Nor do all of them closely follow their religion’s guidelines for behaviour. However, Nigerians are generally deeply religious people. This leads to the second reason, which is that religion influences the material landscape and people's sense of place more generally. In Muslim areas, for example, mosques are prominent features of the landscape; periodic calls to prayer are an important marker of people‘s daily schedules. In Christian areas, Biblical surnames are common and people often incorporate Biblical phrases into various aspects of the textual landscape (example: signs and posters). Christians predominantly live in the south of the country, whereas Muslims live predominantly in the north (see highlights below), Native religions in which people believe in deities, spirits and ancestor worship are spread throughout the country. They usually are specific to the different ethnic groups and the deities are usually the gods and goddesses that the ethnic group believes in, and each ethnic group had a shrine dedicated to the deities that it believed in. The deities ranged from those who created the earth, to those who offer divine protection and/or blessings to its worshippers, to those who had control over certain aspects of the world (like weather or war), to spirits that can be somewhat controlled by human beings. Most of these religions did not have written documentation of their beliefs and practices, but they did rely on a priest to teach them and to intervene on their behalf, and the priests were usually very highly trained for this to the extent of being raised for this task sometimes (Kayode, 1984; Idoniboye, 1973). Many Muslims and Christians may also intertwine their beliefs with more unorthodox indigenous ones. To most Nigerians, religion and faith are important aspects of everyday life. It controls the laws, how you think and act, what you believe, what you value, and more. The major Christian celebrations of Christmas and Easter are recognized as national holidays. Muslims observe Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, and the two Eids. 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. Page 41 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Table 1 Christianity DEITY GOD Followers Christian Book The Bible Place The Church Main Prophet Jesus Christ Islam DEITY GOD Followers Muslim Book The Quran (spelling may differ) Place The Mosque Main Prophet Muhammed (spelling may differ) 2.2.3 Family Structure in Nigeria Family is extremely important to most Nigerians. The nuclear family in a Nigerian home consists of the father, his wife (or wives in polygamous homes), and their children. The extended family consists of all the relatives. Extended families are still the norm and are in fact the backbone of the social system, Grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, sisters, brothers and in-laws all work as a unit through life (Otite & Ogionwo, 2006; Fadipe, 1970, Uchendu, 1965). Family relationships are guided by hierarchy and seniority, Social standing and recognition is achieved through extended families. Similarly, a family's honour is influenced by the actions of its members. 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. In most families, there is a strong family bond, and the phrase "blood" is thicker than water" has a deep meaning. Although, this role of the extended family is diminishing somewhat in urban areas, there remains a strong tradition of mutual caring and responsibility among the members. In many cultures, for a variety of reasons, a child is named on the 8th day of his or her birth. A whole 'naming ceremony' usually accompanies this. Page 42 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture 2.2.4 Gender Roles and Relations in Nigeria Just as gender roles and relations vary among countries, they also, vary within countries. Nigeria is an excellent example of a country with tremendous regional variations in gender relations. In general, labour is divided in Nigerian society along gender lines. Very few women are active in the political and professional arenas. In urban areas, increasing number of women is becoming involved in the professional workforce, but they are greatly outnumbered by their male counterparts. Women who do manage to gain professional employment rarely make it into the higher levels of management. However, women in Nigeria still play significant roles in the economy especially in rural areas, Women are often expected to earn significant portions of the family income. As a rule, men have little obligations to provide for their wives or children. Therefore, women have traditionally had to farm or sell homemade products in the local market to ensure that they could feed and clothe their children. The division of labour along gender lines even exists within industries. For example, the kinds of crops that women cultivate differ from those that men cultivate. In Eastern part of Nigeria, yams are seen as men's crops while beans and cassava are seen as women's crops. In addition, modem Nigeria is a patriarchal society. Men are dominant over women in virtually all areas. While Nigeria is a signatory to the international Convention on Equality for Women, it means little to the average Nigerian woman. Women still have fewer legal rights than men. Finally, in contemporary Nigeria, one of the most important influences on gender relations and roles is that of religion. Here it is important to re-emphasise the fact that Nigeria is a tremendously religious society. One dimension of this religiosity is the fact that most Nigerians make less distinction between the spiritual and the secular than many other countries of the world, including Western Europe and the United States. Thus, it is not surprising that religion plays such an important pan in shaping the roles and relations between men and women. Within Nigeria, Islam is the religion that undoubtedly has the most significant impact on the lives of women in particular. Most women of child bearing age have minimal presence in the public sphere outside of their homes. In cities like Katsina or Kano, only men, children (including young girls), and older women are seen throughout the city. Because of women's public invisibility, the landscapes of cities are male-dominated (Aina, l998; Afonja & Pearce, 1995). Christianity has also had a major impact on gender roles. This influence is more difficult to summarize, however, since there are so many branches of Christianity in the country (Orthodox- Page 43 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture Anglican, Catholic, Pentecostals and Christ Apostolic Church), and other factors like western education have been strong influences in the dominantly Christian regions of the country. 2.2.5 Markets and Products in Nigeria The study of culture can broadly be divided into the study of material and non-material culture, Material culture encompasses a broad range of physical items, from clothing to cookware, housing materials to billboards. One aspect of Nigerian society that is vastly different from other societies like that of American society is commercial activity. Americans are accustomed to buying products in medium to large stores. No American is unfamiliar with a shopping mall or a grocery store. In Nigeria, however, the sites of commercial activity and the nature of retail activity take on a different nature. Most buying and selling of goods take place in markets. The major characteristic of these markets is that they are composed of numerous small traders who engage in trading activities. While many urban markets are quite large, rural markets may be as small as a short strip of stalls along a roadside. Often, however, rural markets operate on a periodic basis. Nigerians make distinctions between markets based on their frequency. Larger markets operate daily (Oyesiku, l992; Oyesiku & Odugbemi, l987; Hodder, l967). The smallest markets may only meet every fifth day after a preceding market. Because markets are composed mainly of independent small-scale traders, the variety of products available in Nigerian markets tends to be quite high. Two examples of cities with rich traditions in indigo cloth dyeing are Kano and Abeokuta. Some of this indigo cloth is produced as art, but a substantial amount is still produced as clothing. 2.2.6 Hierarchy Nigeria is a hierarchical society. Age and position earn and even demand respect. Age is believed to confer wisdom, so older people are granted respect. The oldest person in a group is revered and honoured. In a social situation, they are greeted and served first. In return the most senior person has the responsibility to make decisions that are in the best interest of the group. 2.2.7 Meeting and Greeting People The most common greeting is a handshake with a warm, welcoming smile. As in the rest of Africa, it is rude to rush the greeting process. One must take the time to ask about the other person's health, the health of his/her family, or other social niceties. A Nigerian generally waits for the woman to Page 44 of 177 GNS 201: Nigerian People and Culture extend her hand, though observant Muslims will not generally shake hands with members of the opposite sex. In-Text Questions (ITQs) 2.2 The official language in Nigeria is ______________ In-Text Answers (ITAs) 2.2 English 2.3 Nigerian Communication St
