GST 112: Nigerian People and Culture
Credit Units: 2
Level: 100
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students should be able to:
- Understand the historical and cultural background of Nigeria.
- Appreciate the diversity and richness of Nigerian cultures.
- Promote peaceful coexistence and national unity.
- Understand the social and political structures in Nigeria.
Course Outline / Topics
Week 1–2: Introduction to the Study of Nigerian People and Culture
- Meaning and scope of culture
- Characteristics of culture
- The concept of cultural diversity
- Importance of studying Nigerian culture
Week 3–4: Historical Overview of Nigerian Peoples
- Pre-colonial societies and cultures
- Major ethnic groups and their origins (Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, etc.)
- Inter-group relations in pre-colonial Nigeria
- Influence of colonialism on Nigerian culture
Week 5–6: Nigerian Languages and Communication
- Major and minor Nigerian languages
- Language as a factor of unity or division
- Importance of indigenous languages
- Role of Pidgin English and lingua franca
Week 7–8: Nigerian Social Institutions and Values
- Marriage systems (traditional, religious, civil)
- Family structure and kinship
- Religious beliefs and practices
- Moral values and social norms
Week 9–10: Nigerian Economic Institutions
- Traditional occupations (farming, fishing, craft, trade)
- Impact of globalization and modernity
- Role of women in the traditional and modern economy
Week 11–12: Culture and National Development
- Cultural promotion and national identity
- Cultural imperialism and modernization
- Nigerian cultural policies
Week 13: Contemporary Challenges in Nigerian Culture
- Ethnic conflicts and religious intolerance
- Corruption and erosion of values
- Cultural solutions to national challenges
Week 14: Revision & Preparation for Examination
Resources:
- Otite, O. & Ogionwo, W. – An Introduction to Sociological Studies
- Onigu Otite – Ethnic Pluralism and Ethnicity in Nigeria
- Nnonyelu, A. U. – Understanding Nigerian Culture and Society
- National Universities Commission (NUC) – General Studies Curriculum