Arobinagu Agwunsi: The Agwu Ofia Festival in Igbo Culture

Masquerades performing during the Arobinagu Agwunsi Festival at Nri. Photo - Vanguardngr The Arobinagu Agwunsi, commonly known as the Agwu Ofia Festival, is a vibrant celebration among the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria. This festival honours Agwu Nsi, the Igbo deity of healing, divination, and wisdom, who plays a central role in Igbo spirituality. Held annually…

ByIdenze EzemeJune 13, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

Exploring Ngwa Territory: The Heart of Igbo Culture and Tradition

Inside the green palm belt zone in southeastern Nigeria, Ngwa Territory, which people still call the Aba District, covers 960 square miles of better farmland between the Imo River and the side of Ibibio. This is where the Ngwa people stay; they are one strong Igbo subculture that shows the Igbo spirit of equality, a…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 11, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Historical Studies

Umuada: The Silent Matriarchs of Igbo Society and the Spirit of African Feminism

Ụmụada Group Umuada is a strong traditional group among Igbo people in Southeast Nigeria. Women who created it are daughters of one lineage or community. Whether they are married or not. The word "Umuada" is derived from the Igbo words "Umu" (meaning "children" or "plenty") and "ada" (meaning "daughter"), so it translates to "daughters of the…

ByChukwunwike OssaiApril 26, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Historical Studies

The Riverine Igbo People: Culture, Economy, and History of the Water-Loving Communities around River Niger

Oguta Lake / Charles Alozie The Riverine Igbos are a distinct group of people within the Igbo tribe, one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa. They live in riverine areas, especially around River Niger and its branches. What makes them different from other Igbo people is that they don't adapt to life surrounded by water.…

ByChukwunwike OssaiApril 24, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory ⁠Religion and Spirituality

Ikeji Festival, Arondizuogu: A Grand Celebration of Igbo Tradition and Cultural Heritage

Masquerade on display at Ikeji Festival Arondizougu, 2024. - Photo by Ou Travel and Tour. The Ikeji Festival of Arondizuogu in Imo State, Nigeria, stands as one of the most significant cultural events among the Igbo people. This annual festival, celebrated with grandeur and deep-rooted tradition, marks the end of the farming season and the beginning…

ByChuka OdikeMarch 3, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage ⁠Religion and Spirituality

Okazi Festival, Emii: A Celebration of Heritage, Unity, and Tradition in Imo State

Okazi, Emii Festival men in display photo by showlate entertainment limited. The Okazi Festival, also known as Ite Okazi, is a prominent cultural celebration held annually in Emii, a community in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria. This festival typically occurs in late December or early January, aligning with the traditional calendar of…

ByChuka OdikeMarch 2, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Historical Studies

Ekeleke Dance: Cultural Journey From Ekwe to Western Igbo Areas

Ekeneke Masquerade at Ewuru, Agbor Delta state 01|2025 Photo by Ozikoro.com The Ekeleke dance is a clear emblem of Igbo culture, which originated from Ekwe, Umundugba, in Imo state. At first, it was a dance that was initially for celebration performed by women, and it is known for its beautiful costumes and elaborate focus. Ekeleke, as the name…

ByChukwunwike OssaiJanuary 5, 20250Comments