Weddings in Nigeria are more than the union of two people. They are a meeting point of families, cultures and communities. For the traditional Nigerian couple, marriage is not simply a personal decision but an institution guided by customs, values and rituals that have been handed down through generations.
One of the most notable features of Nigerian weddings is that they often take place in stages. There is usually a traditional ceremony, followed by a religious or civil one, and sometimes both. The traditional wedding is the foundation, setting the tone for everything that follows. It is at this stage that the couple and their families officially acknowledge and honour their heritage.
Across Nigeria’s many ethnic groups, the details of wedding rites differ but there are common threads. Among the Yoruba, the engagement ceremony, known as the “introduction”, is highly symbolic. The groom’s family presents gifts such as yams, palm wine, kola nuts and clothing to the bride’s family. The bride is then called out by her family and asked whether she accepts the groom. Once she does, prayers and blessings follow, sealing the union in the eyes of the community.
For the Igbo, the ceremony often begins with the “iku aka”, where the groom’s family visits to ask formally for the bride’s hand. This is followed by the “wine carrying” ritual. The bride is presented with a cup of palm wine and is tasked with finding her groom in the crowd. When she gives him the drink, it symbolises her acceptance. Gifts such as livestock, drinks and wrappers are exchanged as tokens of goodwill and family bonding.
In the Hausa tradition, the process starts with “na gani ina so”, meaning “I have seen and I like her”. This is followed by “sarauta”, which involves the payment of dowry, a deeply respected aspect of Hausa marital customs. The ceremony is completed with prayers and celebrations, and it is not unusual for the bride to be adorned with henna designs as part of the festivities.
Across all traditions, respect for elders plays a central role. Elders offer blessings, prayers and advice, reminding the couple of the responsibilities they are taking on. Music, dance, and feasting are also essential, turning the occasion into a vibrant community festival.
Today, many Nigerian couples blend traditional rites with modern influences. While the white wedding and civil registration add a contemporary touch, the traditional rites remain the heart of the marriage. They serve as a reminder that weddings in Nigeria are not just about two people in love but about families uniting, cultures thriving and legacies being preserved.