Beads are an important part of Nigerian traditional attire. It is one of the major accessories adorned by kings, chiefs, men and women of different ethnic groups. Beads are used everywhere in the world but the African-made beads stand out. The word bead is coined from an old-German language meaning ‘to pray,’ and is used for several purposes. They are used for religious purposes (in rosaries used by Catholics for praying), to adorn the body, and to make other materials such as shoes, belts and so on. Many Nigerian ladies cannot do without beads in their dressing (waist beads, neck beads are used in place of jewelry). Beads can be gold, glass, pearl, coal seed, corals, vinyl and camel bone.
BEADS IN NIGERIAN CULTURE AND TRADITIONS
Northern Nigeria is majorly made up of the Hausa and Fulani tribes. These people are found in the largest territory in Nigeria, their culture and traditions are exquisite, including their dressing. Beads are used by the females as part of their clothing accessories and as a form of beautification. The Fulani people, in particular, use tiny beads to adorn their waists, wrists, and neck. The beads, alongside paintings in the hand, make them attractive and beautiful.
The Igbos are one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria. When it comes to their traditional attire, beads are a major collection. Kings and chiefs adorn beads on their necks and wrists. Coral beads are majorly used by the people, especially during their traditional ceremonies. The Niger-Deltans are also known to have beads in their dressings. The beads range in color from red to white. Traditional dancers also adorn beads on their necks, waists, wrists, and ankles.
The Yoruba people of Southwestern part also make use of beads for many purposes. Yoruba kings and chiefs are the main custodians of the beads. Their royal apparel: crown, shoe, irukere (horsetail), etc. are mostly made of beads. Traditionalists such as the priests are also styled with beads. Beads are also part of the traditional attire for their intending couples. Traditional worshippers (Ogun, Obatala, Sango, etc) and dancers adorn beads to make their festivals colorful.
Beads are an everyday accessory in Nigeria, office women are not left out as they adorn beads such as the pearl and vinyl beads on their western outfits. Bead has been a source of livelihood for young Nigerians. Nowadays, bead making is one of the entrepreneurial courses people take up to better their lot in this harsh economy.
