8 Practices That Only a Nigerian Will Understand

Nigeria has an extended and diverse list of traditions and customs that every Nigerian lives by. Here are unique traditions and customs that can only work in Nigeria.

Right Hand Only: If you are a Nigerian, you’ll know that it is seen as a sign of disrespect to greet, eat, give, or collect things from people with your left hand. Even if you’re left-handed. The only way you can go scot-free without an insult is if you have no right arm. The worst is when the person you extend your left hand out to is older than you are.
Wedding Day Freshness: Only Nigerian brides understand how the extent of happiness and well-being of the bride is practically expected to be physically viewed in how healthy and radiant she looks by the time her wedding day arrives.
Greeting Elders: Social etiquette actually transcends common pleasantries and is a statement of respect and upbringing. There are a couple of things that go into greeting an elder in Nigeria. A female would kneel on the floor or curtsy to greet an elder, while males would either prostrate, squat, or bow completely to the ground. Thank you’s are the worst especially if you are way down in the chain, every adult will want one from you.
Spraying Money: No Nigerian party is complete without spraying money. People attend ceremonies in Nigeria just to participate in this practice. Reasons for the act include portraying the social status of those being celebrated, showing how much they are appreciated, and a basic show of flamboyance and affluence.
Child Dedication Ceremony: This is should not be confused with the child-naming ceremony commonly practiced in parts of Africa. The purpose of dedication is essentially to thank God for the baby’s presence and present it as a loyal servant.
“Sunday Rice”: Rice is a Sunday must eat in most Nigerian homes after church services. Sunday rice is usually plain-white rice and stew with chicken, beef, or fish. However, on special occasions, it could be Jollof, fried or any other variety of cooked rice.
Omugwo: This is extremely important among the Igbos, but also widely practised across other Nigerian tribes. Basically, after a mother gives birth to her baby, her mother-in-law comes to the home to take care of the new mother and her. The nursing mother is not required to lift a finger as everything is done for her—including bathing the baby, massaging the new mother’s tummy, performing household chores, cooking special meals such as pepper soup, and so on.
“Introduction” Ceremony: This is a formal introduction ceremony letting both families know that the couple is ready to tie the proverbial knot. It takes place in the bride to be’s family home with the groom to be coming to propose and pay respect.