In Nigeria, there’s a special kind of magic that you can’t just see. It’s a feeling. I want to share this Nigerian magic with you through this article. In this article, we’ll talk about crazy Nigerian myths.

These stories are very popular in Nigeria especially while growing up. If you’re from Nigeria, you probably know them well. If you’re not, stay tuned and gird yourself.

Nigerian myths instilled fear in us as children, keeping us grounded at home after dark.

These myths could breed all shades of fear and instil restriction in us as kids. Would you want to know them? Stay with me as we read on.

1. The Tattoo Candy

In certain regions of Nigeria, like Ota, Ogun State, and Okrika, Rivers State, there are tales of trees that bleed real blood. These mythical trees are believed to possess supernatural properties.

In some villages, snakes, particularly those known as “Eke Njaba,” are considered the owners of the land. If a snake enters your home, it is forbidden to kill it. Instead, you must offer it food and treat it as a guest. Once it has finished, gently remove it using a stick.

In certain areas, sweeping and packing dirt at night is considered taboo.

After 6 PM and before 5 AM, it’s advised to avoid going to certain streams. If you must, upon reaching the stream, clap your hands to alert any water spirits that may be present, giving them time to disappear.

In some parts of Igbo land, sleeping with your legs facing the door is said to be a practice reserved for spirits. It is forbidden for humans to do so.

If you accidentally injure someone with a knife, it’s customary to stab the knife into the ground immediately. Additionally, the same applies to brooms too: if you mistakenly brush someone with a broom, it is customary to brush it into the ground as well.

Finally, in certain parts of Nigeria, entering a room where someone has died requires a specific ritual: walking backwards. Those who violate this custom may face supernatural consequences, such as being slapped by angry spirits.

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Nigeria is a country with a rich and diverse musical heritage. The many different music genres that have emerged from the country reflect this diversity. Some of the most popular Nigerian music genres include Afrobeats, Apala, Fuji, Juju, Gospel, and Highlife.  

Afrobeats

Afrobeats is a modern genre of music that has taken the world by storm. It is a fusion of traditional Nigerian rhythms with Western influences such as pop, R&B, and hip-hop.

Its upbeat tempo, catchy melodies, and energetic performances characterize Afrobeats. The genre has produced many international superstars, and it continues to evolve and grow in popularity.  

Apala

Apala is a traditional Yoruba music genre with deep roots in the southwestern part of Nigeria. The call-and-response vocal style, percussive rhythms, and often socially conscious lyrics make up this music style.

Apala music is typically performed with a variety of instruments, including the talking drum, the guitar, and the shekere. The genre has a strong following among the Yoruba people, and it continues to be popular today.  

Fuji

Juju

Gospel

Gospel music is a genre of Christian music that is popular in Nigeria and around the world. Nigerian gospel music is characterized by its energetic performances, soulful vocals, and inspiring lyrics.

The genre has produced many talented musicians, and it continues to be a source of hope and inspiration for many people.  

Highlife

Other Nigerian Music Genres

In addition to the genres mentioned above, many other types of music have emerged from Nigeria. These include hip-hop, R&B, jazz, and classical music. The Nigerian music scene is incredibly diverse, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Nigeria’s rich musical heritage is a testament to the creativity and talent of its people. The country’s music continues to evolve and grow, and it is exciting to see where it will go in the future.

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Nigeria, a melting pot of various cultures, is renowned for its vibrant and captivating festivals. These Nigerian festivals are more than just entertainment; they are vital pillars of the nation’s rich heritage, binding communities together and preserving age-old traditions.

The Role of Festivals in Nigerian Society

• Cultural Preservation: Festivals act as time capsules, encapsulating the essence of a people’s history, beliefs, and customs. Through rituals, dances, and songs, these celebrations transmit cultural values to younger generations.
• Social Cohesion: Festivals bring communities together, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity. They provide opportunities for people to interact, exchange ideas, and strengthen social bonds.
• Economic Impact: Many festivals attract tourists, boosting local economies through hospitality, crafts, and food sales. They also create employment opportunities for artisans, performers, and event organizers.
• Spiritual Renewal: Religious festivals are integral to Nigerian life, providing platforms for spiritual rejuvenation and communion with deities or ancestors.
• Agricultural Significance: Some festivals are tied to agricultural cycles, marking the beginning or end of planting and harvesting seasons. They express gratitude for bountiful harvests and seek blessings for future yields.

Examples of Nigerian Festivals

To illustrate the significance of these festivals, let’s explore a few examples:

• Oshogbo Osun Festival: Celebrated in honour of the goddess of fertility, Osun, this festival attracts thousands of devotees and tourists. Participants engage in traditional dances, offerings, and river processions to appease the goddess and seek blessings.
• Calabar Carnival: A spectacular display of music, dance, and costumes, the Calabar Carnival is Nigeria’s biggest street party. It showcases the diversity of Nigerian cultures and has become a major tourist attraction.
• Eyo Festival: This traditional Yoruba festival, primarily celebrated in Lagos, features masked masquerades known as Eyo. It is a solemn occasion commemorating the death of a king and serves as a reminder of the kingdom’s history.
• Argungu Fishing Festival: Held in Kebbi State, this festival is a thrilling competition among fishermen. It showcases the region’s fishing prowess and attracts spectators from far and wide.
• Igbo New Yam Festival: Marking the harvest of the new yam crop, this festival is a time of thanksgiving and celebration among the Igbo people. It involves rituals, feasting, and cultural displays.

These are just a few examples of the countless festivals celebrated across Nigeria. Each festival holds unique meaning for the participating communities, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the nation’s cultural heritage.

Would you like to know about a specific festival in more detail? Let us know in the comment section.

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