5 important Nigerian cultures every visitor should know

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When you think about visiting Nigeria, it’s not just the places that will wow you but also the incredible cultures. There’s a real vibrancy and warmth that you’ll feel in every part of the country. 

With up to 371 ethnic groups and a lot of different traditions, Nigeria is a treasure trove of rich cultural practices, values, and unique customs.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Nigeria, here’s a simple rundown of five important Nigerian cultures to know. Understanding them will definitely enrich your experience and help you feel more connected to the people you’ll meet.

1. Greetings: Nigerians genuinely appreciate it

In Nigeria, greetings aren’t just a formality—they’re a big deal. Whether you’re in the busy streets of Lagos or the quiet villages of the north, saying “hello” isn’t enough. There’s a certain warmth and respect that goes into every greeting, especially when it involves elders or people you don’t know well.

In Yoruba culture, for example, men will often prostrate (lie flat on the ground), and women may kneel when greeting elders. It’s their way of showing respect. Among the Igbo, it’s common for men to bow slightly, and women often curtsy. 

In the north, the Hausa people place a lot of emphasis on respectful greetings, often with the word “Sannu” and a polite handshake.

This might feel unusual if you’re not used to it, but just remember, taking time to greet people, even if it’s just a smile and a friendly wave, goes a long way in Nigeria. People genuinely appreciate it.

2. Festivals: Nigerians value togetherness and tradition

If you’re someone who loves festivals, then Nigeria will not disappoint! Nigerians take their celebrations seriously—whether it’s for religious reasons or cultural ones, festivals are a chance for the community to come together, have fun, and honour their traditions.

For instance, Lagos hosts the Eyo Festival, which is something you shouldn’t miss if you’re there. People dress in beautiful white costumes called “Eyo” and march through the streets in a parade that’s full of energy, dancing, and music. 

This festival has deep roots in the Yoruba culture and is performed in honour of a local leader.

In the southeast, you might hear about the New Yam Festival (Iri Ji) among the Igbo people. It’s a celebration of the new yam harvest, marking the end of the farming season. There’s a lot of food, traditional dancing, and the symbolic cutting of the yam by a community leader, which is the highlight of the festival.

If you find yourself in the northern region during Eid, you might witness the Durbar Festival. It’s a grand, colourful display of traditional horsemen dressed in ornate clothing, showing off their riding skills. 

This is deeply rooted in Hausa-Fulani culture and typically coincides with Islamic holidays, making it both a religious and cultural event.

These festivals give you a real sense of community, and if you can attend one, you’ll see firsthand how much Nigerians value togetherness and tradition.

3. Food: it’s how many Nigerians show hospitality

Nigerian food is simply unforgettable. The flavours, the spices, the textures—it’s all part of what makes the culinary experience in Nigeria so amazing. And food, just like in many parts of the world, plays a central role in Nigerian culture.

In the southwestern part of Nigeria, where the Yoruba live, dishes like jollof rice are incredibly popular. This rice dish is cooked in tomato sauce and spices, often served with fried plantains and chicken or fish. 

It’s a party favourite, and you’ll probably see it at every big event you attend. Another local dish is amala with ewedu soup, which is a go-to for many Yoruba people.

In the southeast, where the Igbo live, ofe nsala (a light pepper soup) and bitterleaf soup are must-try dishes. They are hearty, rich, and bursting with flavour often served with pounded yam or fufu. 

Don’t be surprised if you’re offered these meals when visiting someone’s home—it’s how many Nigerians show hospitality.

Up in the north, the food is a little different but just as tasty. Tuwo shinkafa, a rice pudding, is a popular staple, often paired with miyan kuka, a thick soup made from baobab leaves. You’ll also find lots of suya (spicy grilled meat skewers) around, which is a favourite street food across Nigeria.

Nigerian meals are more than just about eating—they’re about sharing and coming together. If you’re invited to sit down for a meal, embrace it!

READ ALSO: Fura Da Nono – Refreshing Northern Nigerian Delicacy

4. Traditional Clothing: Nigerians love their clothes

If there’s one thing you’ll notice right away about the Nigerian culture when you visit, it’s the beautiful traditional attire. Nigerians love their clothes, and they wear them with so much pride. Each ethnic group has its own styles and fabrics, and the variety is stunning.

In Yoruba culture, you’ll come across the elegant aso oke, a handwoven fabric that’s often worn during special events like weddings. Men wear flowing robes called agbada, while women rock beautiful gele (head wraps) and buba (blouses). 

The colours are bold, and the patterns are intricate.

For the Igbo, traditional clothing includes the isiagu, which is a patterned shirt worn by men, and women often wear a two-piece outfit with a wrapper and blouse. The bright, colourful attire is usually reserved for festivals, weddings, and other major events.

In the north, among the Hausa and Fulani, you’ll see men wearing babban riga, a long, flowing gown, and filla, a traditional cap. Women often wear abaya, reflecting the Islamic influence in the region.

Wearing traditional clothing is more than just about fashion—it’s a way for Nigerians to express their identity, heritage, and pride.

5. Religion: Nigerians are deeply spiritual

Religion plays a huge part in daily life in Nigeria. The country is divided mainly between Christianity and Islam, with Christianity being more common in the south and Islam more prevalent in the north. Indigenous beliefs are also practised in some areas.

In the north, you’ll hear the call to prayer from the mosques, and Friday prayers are a big part of the week for Muslims. Down south, Christianity is more dominant, with Sundays being a day for church services filled with singing, worship, and community gatherings.

Nigerians are deeply spiritual, and their faith is a big part of who they are. But what’s even more interesting is how Nigerians are so accepting of religious diversity. It’s common to find a family with both Christians and Muslims, and they celebrate each other’s holidays with love and respect.

If you’re visiting, don’t be surprised if you’re invited to a church service, a mosque, or a religious event. It’s a great way to experience just how much religion shapes daily life in Nigeria.