Nigeria possesses a unique form of diversity. Just like the rainbow,
it is a delicate yet beautiful blend of different colours, cultures,
class, and creed. These cumulatively produce a breathtaking
and astonishing repertory of indigenous resonating intangible heritage,
preserved over the years for posterity. Such traction that makes Nigerians
proud of their endowment; a propelling force to continually explore unity in
its diversity, driven to draw strength and progress while inspiring confidence
that will yet leave an enduring legacy for the next generation.
This publication is a pictorial journey on Nigeria focused on the endless list
of cultural contents in dance, body adornments, costume, masquerade,
and musical instruments that directly influence the cultures of black people
globally outside Africa, especially in Afro-Brazilian and other Caribbean
carnivals and lifestyle. Africans, over the years, have not only exported
strength and beauty but also cherish their cultures, traditions, norms,
values, and cosmology. Such beauty that holds visitors from far and
near spellbound about the abundance of diverse yet unique originality in
dance forms, colour, food, and rhythm.
Beauty seen in Nigeria's rich cultural festivals is practically as diverse
as the over 350 ethnic groups that make up the most populous and
most powerful black nation in the world. Ranging from the annual Abuja
Carnival which brings an exhilarating potpourri of cultures across Nigeria
to the nation's capital at the end of the year in November or December,
Igue Festival celebrated annually in Edo State to the Argungu Fishing
Festival in Kebbi State celebrated since 1934 to mark the end of hostilities
between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom; the Calabar
Carnival described as Nigeria's biggest street party; the Osun Osogbo
Festival; the Ofala Festival in Onitsha and the Sharo or Shadi Flogging
Competition, a traditional rite of passage for Jafun Fulani men that is
accompanied by lots of singing and dancing, there are many festivals in
Nigeria many of which predate the arrival of the major religions in our
ethnically and culturally diverse society.
These festivals are however incomplete until they become an
opportunity for the people to display their rich taste for fashion and
excellent culinary skills which again refl ect the diversity and strength
inherent in them.
Above all, the people, ever so friendly, warm and receptive to visitors,
remain the greatest asset of this great nation of over 200 million.
Welcome to Nigeria. Enjoy the NAIJA Spirit.
