Ikoro: Igbo’s Ancient Communication Slit Drum
Ikoro Drum, Amongst the Igbos, G.T Basden (1921)
Ikoro
Ikoro is a traditional Igbo drum used…
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Photo: Chinua Achebe shot by Eliot Elisofon in Enugu months after the release of Things Fall Apart (1958), 1959. Smithsonian.
Chinua Achebe, one of Africa’s most influential literary voices, highlighted the deep-seated psychological and cultural challenges that countries like Nigeria faced post-independence. In a 1972 interview, Achebe described what he called a “crisis in the soul,”…
Igbo student at domestic sewing lessons, taken by Drs. G.W. (Gerrit Willem) Grootenhuis, 1967.
In 1967, a photograph taken by Dr. Gerrit Willem Grootenhuis captured a significant moment in the education of an Igbo student engaged in domestic sewing lessons. This image reflects broader socio-cultural and economic efforts to empower women and young learners within Igbo…
A Y-shaped currency piece known as àpá in Igbo, or the 'Ogoja penny', it replaced an earlier hoe-shaped currency in the Cross River Igbo area (around Arochukwu) known as ányú. Taken in 1908. British Museum
The Y-shaped currency, referred to as àpá in Igbo, holds significant historical and cultural value in Igbo society. It was commonly…
This picture taken c. 1889, possibly by G. F. Packer credited with other photos from the Niger and Onitsha (and of Onitsha trading women), is annotated as 'Trader from Timbuctou' on the left and 'Rich Trading Woman' on the right.
This photograph, taken circa 1889, is attributed to G. F. Packer, who is known for documenting…
"Ifogu masquerade depicting the band seated on the ground and two masqueraders wearing Mba masks in the background. The band members are playing slit wooden slit drums and some are holding clappers." G. I. Jones, 1930s.
The Ifogu masquerade Originating from the southeastern axis of the Igbo cultural area of Afikpo (Ehugbo) holds a cultural and…
Mazi Alvan Ikoku, whose portrait graces the Nigerian 10 naira note, is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated educationists. Despite this honour, few Nigerians truly understand his contributions to education, nationalism, and community development. This paper delves into Ikoku’s life, exploring the events and achievements that merited his enduring legacy on Nigerian currency and in history.
Who…
The Aba women protest 1929-1930.
Introduction
The Aba Women’s War, also known as the “Women’s War” in Igbo history, erupted in southeastern Nigeria in late 1929 as Igbo-Ibibio women protested oppressive colonial policies. This uprising, led by market women from Calabar and Owerri Provinces, was one of the most significant challenges to British rule in Nigeria,…
"The Ekulu coal mine is one of five currently being operated by the statutory Nigerian Coal Corporation. Nigeria is the only country in Equatorial West Africa at present producing coal." Eliot Elisofon, 1959. Smithsonian Institute.
The Ekulu coal mine, one of five coal mines operated by the Nigerian Coal Corporation (NCC), played a pivotal role in…
The Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria have a rich culture that includes a deep understanding of the stars and the changing seasons. Centuries earlier, the Igbo depended on observations of the celestial world to guide their agricultural activities, spiritual rituals, and social life. This article looks at Igbo knowledge of stars and seasons, how this…
Music has always been essential to people, helping them connect, celebrate, and share stories. In the Igbo culture of southeastern Nigeria, The Royal Drums of Ubulu are more than just instruments. The Uduburu is a collection of drums in the Igbo language meaning unity, tradition, and leadership. It plays a major role in people coming…