The Obi: A Cultural and Symbolic Heart of the Igbo-Ukwu Household

The Obi, known in various Igbo dialects as an 'Ovu', 'Obu', 'Iba', 'Ogbiti', etc, is more than just an ordinary house. It is a sacred and community space that carries the identity, power, and tradition of the man who is the head of the house. The Obi is shaped like an oblong with a high…

ByChukwuwike3 days ago0Comments

Oji: The Sacred Seed of Trade and Tradition in Igbo Land

For Igbo people, kola nuts are not just an ordinary commodity - they are a serious cultural and spiritual item that drives their economy. It is called Ojo, and it plays a big role in the pre-colonial and early colonial times. Kola nuts are used in rituals, for hospitality, and even serve as a form…

ByChukwuwikeApril 26, 20250Comments

Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

The Rise, Decline, and Potential Revival of Awka Blacksmithing: A Centuries-Old Igbo Craft

An Ọka [Awka] blacksmith, nnẹ ụzụ, and his nwa ụzụ, an apprentice blacksmith, photographed by G. T. Basden, early 20th century. Awka in Anambra State, Nigeria, is a big name for blacksmithing, which is the art of turning all types of things into iron; they are truly masters in iron works. Awka blacksmiths have been into…

ByChukwuwikeMarch 31, 20252Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

Living Omenani: How Igbo Traditions Shape Daily Life

Omenani is the big word that lgbo people use to talk about their tradition, customs, and way of life that came from their ancestors. It's like a rule book that guides how Igbo people live, marry, give birth, bury dead, farm, trade, and even talk to their gods and spirits. Omenani is not something that they wrote…

ByChukwuwikeMarch 8, 20250Comments

Tag: Oji

The Obi: A Cultural and Symbolic Heart of the Igbo-Ukwu Household

Oji: The Sacred Seed of Trade and Tradition in Igbo Land

The Rise, Decline, and Potential Revival of Awka Blacksmithing: A Centuries-Old Igbo Craft

Living Omenani: How Igbo Traditions Shape Daily Life

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