World of Indigenous Igbo Culture, History & Their Neighbours
A long time ago, in a beautiful forest, there lived a wise kite and her young daughter. Mother Kite was known for being strong and smart. Many animals in the forest would come to her for advice. Her daughter looked up to her and wanted to learn everything her mother knew. One day, the daughter … Read more
A long time ago, a leopard and a goat were best friends. They lived in a village and both had children. The leopard had two cubs, and the goat had two kids. Over time, the goat’s kids grew fat and healthy, while the leopard’s cubs became thin. The leopard became jealous and planned something bad. … Read more
Once upon a time, in a land brimming with life and laughter, there lived a wise old Tortoise with his children. One day, Tortoise sat his children down and said, “My dear ones, remember two things in life—never take what isn’t yours, and always tell the truth.” His children nodded earnestly, replying, “We understand, Father.” … Read more
Once upon a time, there was a beautiful young maiden in a village. She was known far and wide for her incredible beauty, and many suitors came from different corners of the world to ask for her hand in marriage. Despite the many wonderful offers, the maiden was very picky. No matter how handsome, rich, … Read more
Once upon a time, in a great kingdom deep in the heart of the land, there lived a mighty and wealthy king. This king owned a magical drum that was the source of his wealth and prosperity. Whenever he beat the drum, food of all kinds would appear before him, and riches would pour forth … Read more
A long time ago, Earth and Sky were close friends. They worked together to keep the world in balance—Earth provided a home for people and animals, while Sky sent down rain to help crops grow. But one day, they had a terrible quarrel. No one knows exactly what caused the fight, but Sky became so … Read more
In Igbo mythology, Asele is a famous designer from Nimo, a town in the north-central Igbo region. She was the most skilled uli artist. Uli is a traditional Igbo graphic art used to decorate objects for social and religious purposes. Asele’s artistic talent came from Ala, the Earth Mother, who is the source of creativity … Read more
A long time ago, in a peaceful village, Mosquito was known as a restless and boastful insect. He loved to talk about himself, telling anyone who would listen how important and strong he was. He would fly from place to place, making noise, never staying quiet. One day, as Mosquito flew around looking for someone … Read more
The belief in shape-shifting, or the ability to spiritually or physically transform into an animal, is deeply embedded in the cosmologies of various ethnic groups in Southern Nigeria. Among the Igbo, Ibibio, and other Cross River peoples, special bonds exist between individuals or entire lineages and specific animals, plants, or trees. This phenomenon, sometimes … Read more
A long time ago, in a small village, there lived a young Snake-Lizard and his mother. They were poor but hardworking. Every day, Snake-Lizard helped his mother with chores and brought food for them to eat. One day, Snake-Lizard went to the farm and harvested seven baskets of vegetables. He carried them home happily and … Read more