The Nigerian people and culture facts have been an interesting topic which most people really want to have an idea about, especially if they are residing outside country. Nigeria, a country which is been regarded as the giant of Africa is located in the southern waterfront of west Africa. The most popular city in Nigeria is Lagos, while Abuja still remain the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Nigerian people and culture facts are ways of life that is dictated by various ethnic groups in the country. Nigeria as a nation, has 527 languages and more than 1150 tongues and ethnic gatherings. The largest ethnic groups in Nigeria going by the last census are Yoruba located in Southwestern Nigeria, Hausa-Fulani in the North, and Igbo in the Southeastern part of Nigeria. These are the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria.
Also read: Top 10 Smallest States in Nigeria By Population and Land Mass
The most populated tribes in Nigeria among the three major ones are the Hausa in the North, followed by the Yoruba in the Southwest, and then the Igbo in the Southeast. Other large tribes also include the Ijaw in the South-south and the Fulani in the North.
Nigerian People and Culture Facts: Official Language in Nigeria
The official language in Nigeria is English, this is as a result of the language of her colonial master (The Great Britain). Students in all educational institutions in the country are been taught in English language. In casual events, people in Nigeria still chooses to converse in their mother tongue, once they come across someone who speaks the same language as them.
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Another language or means of communication that is very common among Nigerians is “Pidgin English”, which is literarily a blend of normal English with some local slangs.
Nigerian People and Culture Facts: Religious Beliefs Amongst Nigerians
Nigeria as a country is divided into 36 different states including the FCT. Out of the 36 states, you will find 13 Northern states of which most of the indigenes are Muslims. The Hausas have been Muslims for about a thousand years now, they were converted to Islam by Arab dealers and vendors who normally trade in that region during the 10th century.
When you move down to the Southern part of Nigeria, majority of the population and indigenes there are Christians. Though there are also some few people who still practice other indigenous beliefs.
Nigerian People and Culture Facts: Foods and Delicacies
Nigerian meals are generally characterised by a rich mix of starchy foods. For example, Yam, Cassava, and Rice are the major foods that are consumed in all parts of the country, coupled with the additions of vegetable soups which are regularly consumed by most Nigerians.
Beans, is another unique and nutritious food that is been consumed by many people in Nigeria. Meat is not left out of the delicacies, as “Suya” a grilled like cooked meat is an outstanding delicacy in Nigeria.
Garri, a Cassava powder is majorly served as dinner in most families in Nigeria, and it is very affordable. Yam tubers are often boiled and eaten with red palm oil, or pounded to make “Pounded Yam” which can be eaten with various vegetable soups. Maize is another food that is also consumed in Nigeria.
Summary
There are still much to be discussed about Nigerian People and Culture Facts, but I cannot really pen them down at the moment. If you still need more answers, simply ask your questions by using the comment box below.
