Obaba Museum

It’s really been such an exhausting week and it hasn’t even began. There’s always the tendency to get stuck in the abyss of thoughts consistently pervading one’s mind especially when the teacher strikes a cord with one of those historical allusions.

My Hausa friend!

My friend from the North!

Adaeze nudges me as if to say come back to class.

James!

Yes sir, I finally turn realising that I was the Hausa friend Mr. Kola was referring to. Most people in the Southwest seem to be so ignorant about the extent of Nigeria’s ethnic diversity; they seem to refer to every northerner as Hausa or everyone from the South-South and Southeastern part of Nigeria as Igbo. Well I know that most Nigerians are ignorant of ethnicities outside their geopolitical zones, I personally admire the rationale behind the NYSC Scheme. I think beyond mastering Mathematics and statistics Mr. Kola should learn history or simply become friends with Mr. Victor.

The next day Mr. Victor decides to add a twist to history class, I wish all other teachers could take a cue from him; if all students were taught this way, I doubt there would be failure in school. ‘Good morning class, today’s topic is about The Precolonial History of Nigeria but I would be telling you a story’. The whole class is excited about the thought of storytelling in history class.

Once upon a time, in the vast lands of Nigeria, a land as diverse as the colors of the rainbow, a group of scholars set out on a thrilling journey to uncover the hidden truths of their Nation. They were determined to shatter misconceptions and stereotypes that had clouded people’s minds for generations.

Meet Amina, a bright and cheerful young woman from the northern region. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone in the North is Hausa. Amina herself belonged to the Fulani tribe, a nomadic group known for their breathtaking traditional attire and exceptional herding skills. With her warm smile and tales of her nomadic experiences, she captured her friends’ hearts, painting a vivid picture of life amidst the Sahel where the Fura stills the soul. There is also Chinedu, a vibrant man from the southeast. As they advance, Chinedu shares the intriguing stories of his people, the Igbo, known for their strong entrepreneurial spirit and rich cultural heritage. He proudly describes the southeast as a melting pot of various ethnic groups like the Igbo, Ibibio, and Efik, among others, each contributing to the region’s unique tapestry. Yewande, a charismatic woman from the southwestern region is an epitome of class and poise. Proudly Yoruba, she details the exploits of the Yoruba people particularly the long history of powerful kingdoms such as the Oyo empire not to neglect the exceptional craftsmanship of its artists and blacksmiths. She delighted her friends with tales of Yoruba mythology, showing that her ethnic group’s influence extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, reaching far into the Caribbean and South America due to the transatlantic slave trade.

Advancing southward, they encountered Femi, a friendly and welcoming man from the Niger Delta region. Femi’s people, the Ijaw, were not only known for their fishing prowess but also for their unique blend of language and culture. Yes, you heard me right, Femi is Ijaw not Yoruba. He made sure his friends understood that the Niger Delta was not only a region of natural resources but also a land of diverse and distinct ethnicities some of which share close affinities with Yoruba nations such as the Ilajes.

The friends’ journey didn’t stop there. They met and learned about more ethnic groups such as the Tiv, Idoma, Kanuri, Ibibio, and so many others. Each community having its own rich history, unique language, customs, and traditions that contributed to the vibrant tapestry of Nigeria’s cultural landscape.

As the friends continued their expedition, they realized that the stereotypes they once held about Nigeria’s ethnic diversity were mere shadows in the light of reality. They had uncovered a nation with over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own distinct identity, languages, traditions, and contributing to the nation’s cultural heritage. Enlightened and humbled by their discoveries, the friends returned home with a newfound appreciation for their country’s diverse heritage. They vowed to share their experiences and educate others about the true extent of Nigeria’s ethnic diversity, breaking down barriers and fostering unity among all its people.

And so, the story of Amina, Chinedu, Yewande, and Femi’s epic journey spread far and wide. It became a beacon of hope and understanding, inspiring people to embrace the richness of Nigeria’s diversity and celebrate the unique identities that together formed the vibrant nation they call home. For it is in acknowledging and cherishing this diversity that Nigeria’s true strength and unity lie, like a kaleidoscope of colors creating a breathtaking masterpiece.

To be continued…