Back to: Religion and National Value JSS2
Welcome to class!
In today’s class, we’re going to be talking about Early Nigerian civilizations. I trust you will enjoy the class!
Early Nigerian civilizations
Nigeria boasts a rich and diverse history, with several early civilizations contributing to its cultural heritage. These civilizations developed unique religious beliefs and values that have shaped the nation’s identity. Studying these early civilizations helps us understand the origins of Nigerian culture, religion, and national values.
I. Nok Civilization (c. 1500 BC – 200 AD)
Location: Primarily in central Nigeria.
Religious Beliefs: The Nok people are believed to have practiced a form of ancestor worship, with evidence suggesting they held elaborate burial rituals. Terracotta figurines discovered at Nok sites often depict figures with exaggerated features, possibly representing deities or spirits.
Values: The Nok civilization placed a high value on art and craftsmanship, evident in their intricate terracotta sculptures. They also valued community and social cohesion, as evidenced by their organized settlements.
II. Igbo Ukwu Civilization (c. 9th Century AD)
Location: Southeastern Nigeria.
Religious Beliefs: The Igbo Ukwu civilization is associated with the Igbo people, who traditionally practice a complex religion based on the worship of a supreme deity, Chukwu, and numerous other gods and spirits.
Values: The Igbo Ukwu civilization valued social hierarchy and leadership, evident in the elaborate regalia and artifacts found in royal burials. They also placed a high value on craftsmanship, as seen in their intricate bronze and copper works.
III. Ife Civilization (c. 11th – 15th Century AD)
Location: Southwestern Nigeria.
Religious Beliefs: The Ife civilization is closely associated with the Yoruba religion, which revolves around the worship of Olodumare, the supreme deity, and numerous other gods and goddesses known as Orishas.
Values: The Ife civilization valued artistic expression, evident in their exquisite bronze and terracotta sculptures. They also valued kingship and social order, as reflected in their elaborate palaces and political systems.
IV. Benin Civilization (c. 13th – 19th Century AD)
Location: Southern Nigeria.
Religious Beliefs: The Benin civilization practiced a religion similar to the Yoruba, with a strong emphasis on ancestor worship and the veneration of the Oba, the divine king.
Values: The Benin civilization valued artistic excellence, evident in their intricate bronze sculptures and ivory carvings. They also valued warfare and expansion, as reflected in their military conquests and the construction of defensive walls.
V. National Values Derived from Early Civilizations
The religious beliefs and values of these early civilizations continue to influence modern Nigerian society. Some key national values derived from these civilizations include:
Respect for elders and ancestors: This value is deeply rooted in the ancestor worship practices of many early civilizations.
Communalism: The emphasis on community and social cohesion found in many early civilizations has shaped Nigerian society’s communal values.
Artistic expression: The rich artistic traditions of early civilizations continue to inspire Nigerian artists and contribute to the nation’s cultural identity.
Religious tolerance: The diversity of religious beliefs in early civilizations has fostered a culture of religious tolerance in Nigeria.
The study of early Nigerian civilizations provides valuable insights into the origins of the nation’s cultural, religious, and social values. Understanding these civilizations helps us appreciate the rich diversity and complexity of Nigerian society.
We have come to the end of today’s class. I hope you enjoyed the class!
In the next class, we shall be discussing national values.
In case you require further assistance or have any questions, feel free to ask in the comment section below, and trust us to respond as soon as possible. Cheers!
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