Nigerian coastal inhabitants' culture is strongly connected with their environment, from fishing and resource collection to spiritual ties with nature and art as a form of cultural expression. The coastal region of Nigeria is home to many distinct ethnic groups, who are separated into two groups: those who reside on the mainland and those who dwell on the islands off the coast. People from diverse tribes such as the Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, Fulani, and Ijaw make up the former, while Efik, Ibibio, and Kalabari make up the latter. These separate cultures have their own languages, traditions, and beliefs that set them apart from one another. One of the customs prominent among theses tribes is fishing which is a popular activity among these tribes is fishing, which is a popular activity among Nigerians who live near the coast. This practice has been passed down through generations making it an integral part of their culture to date. Additionally, some families rely solely on fishing for survival, so it plays a major role in sustaining their livelihoods.  Music and dance are important traditions found among coastal dwellers. Different types of festivals connected to water such as boat regattas, spiritual sacrifices and fishing competitions are conversant with coastal dwellers. Other emotionally related activities such as the mode of dressing,  food and its way of preparation will be discussed in this paper as it influences their environment.

Primary Presenter: Ngozi Oguguah, Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research Lagos Nigeria (ngozimoguguah@yahoo.com)

Authors:

Nnedimma Nnodim, Federal University of Technology Owerri Imo State Nigeria  (ihechukwu03@gmail.com)