Igbo tribe, indigenous to the southern part of Nigeria are an ethnic group well known for their enterprising, independent and adventurous nature.
Natively referred to as Ndi Igbo, the tribe is popular for its variety of food, dance, music, musical instruments, festival and culture. With “Igbo” being their principal native language, the society boasts of about 45 million speakers and over 20 dialects.
Here are some interesting facts about the Igbo people:
1. The Igbo society boasts of a variety of soups such as Oha, Nsala, Akwu, Okazi and Ofe Owerri. These soups are made from locally grown vegetables and seeds.
2. The vibrant and colourful attire, Isiagu is commonly worn by Igbo people during notable ceremonies such as the Chieftaincy occasion.
3. The Igbo tribe practices the “Omugwo” tradition. The tradition accords special care to new and nursing mothers. They are usually supported by their experienced mothers, mothers-in-law or older aunties for about 40 days after delivery.
4. The Igbo society confers different titles to deserving members of the community. A prestigious one is the Ozo title for men, Ichie, Aruma and others.
5. Women are also recognized title holders in the Igbo community. A good example is an ”Iyom” title conferred to women of integrity, class and character.
6. Igbo people are one of the creatives leading the change in the Nigerian music industry. There is Phyno, Flavour, Chidinma, Psquare, Tekno, Patoranking, Runtown and a Host of others.
7. Igbo music is generally lively, upbeat and spontaneous. Popular Igbo music styles are Igbo highlife, Igbo bango and Odumodu. Igbo musicians intensify the rhythm of their music by using traditional instruments such as Ekwe (slit drum) and Udu (drum).
8. In the 1950s, the highlife genre was very popular and musicians performed around Africa and Europe. Notable highlife artists included Oriental Brothers, Oliver De Coque, Chief Osita Osadebe, Celestine Ukwu and others.
9. Igbo people fly the Nigerian flag proudly around the world. They have one of the best creatives, including writers and artists. There is Chinua Achebe, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Cyprian Ekwensi, Ben Enwonwu (sculptor).
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