World of Indigenous Igbo Culture, History & Their Neighbours
This photo captures Romanus Nzeke, a skilled carver from Mgbala Agwa, in present-day Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria, repainting the Agiriga mask in 1983. The Agiriga mask is a key element in Igbo cultural ceremonies and symbolizes beauty and creativity. Romanus precise craftsmanship and dedication to detail highlight his role in preserving traditional … Read more
Ada Priscilla Nzi (April 30, 1923 – March 22, 1951) was a groundbreaking figure in Nigerian history. She is the first Igbo woman to practice modern medicine in Eastern Nigeria. Her life was filled with remarkable achievements, great potential, and tragic early death, leaving a lasting impact that continues to inspire generations. Nzimiro was born … Read more
Many people are curious about the name Okoro because it is common among the Igbo, Isoko, and Urhobo ethnic groups despite its obvious Igbo origin. Interestingly, the meaning of Okoro remains the same among these cultures. How Did this Igbo Name Become Integrated into the Isoko and Urhobo lexicons? The answer is found in migration … Read more
Igbide is one of the nine administrative clans in Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. A significant natural feature of this region is the Urie-Igbide (Igbide Lake), a major water outlet connected by a narrow but deep creek to Patani, an Ijaw town on the River Niger. Historically, this waterway served as a … Read more
Traditional tattooing in Igbo society was more than mere body decoration; it was a deeply symbolic and significant practice, tied to rites of passage, identity, and artistry. The custom of facial and body tattooing, particularly among Igbo women, reflected cultural values, beauty ideals, and societal roles. This practice, which often involved cicatrisation, is most famously … Read more
Introduction Mbari houses are unique cultural and spiritual edifices found in Igbo land, particularly in the Owerri region and some substantial number of towns in Imo states and Rivers States, Nigeria. These ceremonial structures serve as artistic expressions of gratitude to Ala, the Earth goddess, and other deities. Built as part of religious rituals, Mbari … Read more
Embedded within the cultural fabric of Igboland are the Oru people, a unique and distinct group within the larger Igbo ethnic family. The adage “Oru na Igbo bu ofu,” meaning “Oru and Igbo are one,” underscores a shared heritage; however, the Oru have cultivated their own riverine way of life, rich with distinct customs, beliefs, … Read more
Through the lens of the current colonial economy of colonial Nigeria, Oguta was economically exploited by the British. After the 1880s, Britain sought to expand its mineral survey, particularly in Southern and Northern Nigeria. These surveys conducted in 1903/1904 as requested by the then British Secretary of State for the Colonies facilitated the systematic exploitation … Read more