Why the Bat is Ashamed to be Seen in the Daytime

Why the Bat is Ashamed to be Seen in the Daytime

Once, there was an old mother sheep who had seven lambs. One day, a bat wanted to visit his father-in-law, who lived far away. He went to the mother sheep and asked her to lend him one of her lambs to carry his load. At first, the mother sheep refused, but the young lamb was … Read more

The Name “Anambra” Is Not New: A Look at Its Indigenous and Colonial Origins

An Igbo man from Achala, p.d. Anambra State, photographed by British colonial government anthropologist Northcote Thomas, 1910-1911. Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Cambridge.

Many believe “Anambra” is a recent invention created during Nigeria’s post-colonial period. However, historical records prove that variations of the name—such as “Anambara” and “Anambala”—were in use long before British rule. These earlier versions reflect the Indigenous Igbo pronunciation. The spelling “Anambra” is simply a colonial adaptation of the traditional name. Early Mention of Anambara … Read more

Proverb: Ọ bụghị egwu ọ bụla ka ana-agba chiri ụtaba na aka

This Igbo proverb, Ọ bụghị egwu ọ bụla ka ana-agba chiri ụtaba na aka (Not every dance is performed with tobacco/snuff in hand), carries a deep lesson about adaptability and situational awareness. In traditional Igbo society, different dances were performed for various occasions; some were solemn, others were celebratory, and each required a fitting attitude … Read more

Ede Ala: A Traditional Igbo Body Art Reflecting Beauty and Cultural Identity

Ede Ala: A Traditional Igbo Body Art Reflecting Beauty and Cultural Identity

Ede Ala, also known in some Igbo dialects as Nkasi Ali, was a traditional form of body art among the Igbo people. This art form featured beautiful, curving tattoo designs typically applied around the neck, back, breasts, and belly. It was an important cultural expression in Igbo society, symbolizing beauty, identity, and status. The ink … Read more

H.R.H. Dr. Igwe Alphonsus Okechukwu Okagbue: A Legacy of Leadership and Cultural Preservation

His Majesty Igwe Alphonsus Okechukwu Okagbue

The Ofala Festival of 1971 marked a significant moment in the reign of His Majesty Igwe Alphonsus Okechukwu Okagbue, CFR, a revered monarch whose leadership left an indelible mark on the history of Onitsha and the Igbo People. Born on October 5, 1923, in Onitsha, Nigeria, Igwe Okagbue ascended to the throne and became one … Read more

Égwú Àmàlà: The Paddle Dance of Nigeria’s River Communities

Égwú Àmàlà, also called the Paddle Dance, is a traditional dance from the Aboh people of Delta State and the Ogbaru people of Anambra State, Nigeria. It is an essential part of their culture and is mainly performed by women. The dance represents unity, leadership, and life by the river. History of Égwú Àmàlà Égwú … Read more

Egwu Ogene: The Heartbeat of Igbo Culture and Music

Egwu Ogene, which means “bell music,” is a traditional type of music from the Enugu people in Southeastern Nigeria. This music gets its name from the ogene, a metal bell that plays a vital role in the performance. In the past, Egwu Ogene was used mainly for rituals, especially those related to spirits. Over time, … Read more

Ijele Masquerade: The Largest and Most Revered Masquerade in Igbo Land

The Nsugbe Ijele marches forth through the town

Ijele Masquerade is the biggest masquerade in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is an important tradition of the Igbo people in Nigeria. In many communities in Anambra State, South-Eastern Nigeria, the Ijele masquerade is performed during celebrations, burial ceremonies, and other special occasions in the dry season. It is believed to bring fertility and a good harvest. … Read more

Nkwa Ụmụagboghọ Dance: A Cultural Heritage of Ebonyi State

Nkwa Ụmụagboghọ, which means ‘maidens’ dance,’ is a popular cultural dance group in Igbo Land. It was started in 1970 by Chief Vincent Omesi Nwachi from Ndibe, Afikpo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. He helped make it well-known both in Nigeria and other countries. Chief Nwachi was a skilled and talented leader. He made sure the dance … Read more

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