Why People Have Different Culture

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Why people have different culture

Customs are the beliefs and traditions of a particular group of people. Differences in customs, beliefs and traditions are as a result of belonging to a different cultural background. For example, the Yoruba people live in a completely different environment from Hausa and Igbo people,

Similarities in our culture

There are certain similarities in the culture of different groups. They can be found in their beliefs, food, dress, music, mode of greeting, among others. This is because some groups of people have a common history. People also behave alike because they are all human beings. The Hausa and the Yoruba have a lot in common in showing respect to elders. Another area of likeness can be found in their music and dressing.

Among ethnic groups in Nigeria, there are also similarities in tribal marks. For example, the Igala have horizontal tribal marks on their cheeks which are similar to those of the Yoruba.

The uniqueness of Nigerian culture

The term unique means having no peer or equal. It is the only one of its kind. There are certain peculiar traits that make the Nigerian culture stand out. These are quite common to the people of Nigeria. These common cultural traits are as follows:

1. The extended family system is a feature of the Nigerian family system throughout the length and breadth of the country.
2. The conduct of marriage rites at different stages is also a common practice among all the people of Nigeria. The payment of bride price by the groom is practised in all parts of Nigeria.
3. The existence of the age grade system and secret societies was and is still a common phenomenon in many Nigerian societies. They assist the communities in all aspects of social control and the enforcement of order.
4. A few people in Nigeria practise subsistence agriculture, using similar work tools and methods.
5. Respect for old age is a common thing in all communities in Nigeria.
6. There is no need to conduct elections to get the people that will represent the various sections of a community or village in any serious communal issue. The elderly people are selected first according to their age and wisdom. In the same way, those who usually help the traditional rulers govern the people are the elderly people who are renowned for their wisdom and not necessarily their money.

Note: The above also serve as some of the similarities between the different Nigerian cultures.

 

 

 

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