Marriage

Igbo marriage refers to the traditional marriage customs and practices of the Igbo people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria. Igbo marriages are typically elaborate and involve several stages and ceremonies. While modern influences have brought some changes to the traditional practices, many Igbo people still value and adhere to their cultural marriage traditions.

Basic things done in an Igbo marriage

1. Introduction: The first stage is the introduction, where the groom and his family visit the bride's family to formally declare their intention to marry their daughter. This visit is usually led by the groom's father or an elderly male relative.

2. Introduction of families: After the initial introduction, both families come together to meet and get acquainted. This meeting serves to establish the compatibility and willingness of both families to proceed with the marriage.

3. Bride price negotiations: The next step involves the negotiation of the bride price or dowry, known as "ime ego" in Igbo language. The groom's family presents gifts, usually including money, drinks, and other items, to the bride's family as a token of appreciation for raising their daughter. The bride price negotiations can be a lengthy process, and the final agreed amount is considered a significant gesture of respect and commitment.

4. Traditional wedding ceremony: The traditional Igbo wedding ceremony is known as "Igba Nkwu" or "Igba Nkwu Nwanyi." It is a colorful event that takes place at the bride's family compound or a designated location. The ceremony involves various rituals, dances, cultural performances, and feasting.

5. Exchange of vows and blessings: During the ceremony, the couple exchanges vows and receives blessings from their parents and elders. The groom is required to seek the consent and blessings of the bride's family, as well as her ancestral spirits, through prayers and libations.

6. Traditional attire: The bride and groom usually wear traditional Igbo attire for the wedding ceremony. The bride often wears a vibrant and intricately designed outfit, including a blouse, wrapper, and headgear, while the groom may wear a traditional Igbo robe called "Isiagu" or "Chieftaincy" attire.

7. Breaking of kola nuts: Kola nuts hold cultural significance in Igbo traditions, and they are often used during ceremonies. During the wedding, the couple breaks and shares kola nuts as a symbol of unity and hospitality.

8. Feasting and celebrations: Following the ceremony, there is usually a grand feast with an abundance of traditional Igbo delicacies and drinks. Family members, friends, and well-wishers join in the celebration, often accompanied by music, dancing, and cultural performances.

It's important to note that Igbo marriage practices may vary slightly between different communities and families, as customs can differ based on regional traditions and individual preferences. However, the underlying principles of respect, unity, and cultural identity remain integral to Igbo marriage ceremonies. Looking at the beautiful culture and tradition people travel from far and near just to witness the fun and lovely ceremonies , it is also a time to see family and friends that we have not seen in a long time . Igbo people are known to throw lavish parties even as it a happy moment it is also an emotional moments cos the bride leaves her family to be with another family . Ties are made and the family grows bigger and bigger , in the olden days the bride is accompanied by two people to her husband’s house but now just the bride is carried to her husbands house in a grand style each family has a way of welcoming their new bride . In my place a ceremony is held to welcome the bride .