1. The Igbo PeopleThe Igbo are an ethnic group native to the present-day south-central and southeastern Nigeria.
In rural Nigeria, Igbo people work mostly as craftsmen, farmers and traders. 70% of Nigeria's industry is based on the manufacturing of goods (Gcse Geography) and Igbo people are often favored by their geographical position in Nigeria to cultivate and manufacture crops.
Furthermore, the Niger Delta is found in the Igbo region and is supported by Shell. A trans-national corporation.
Before British colonial rule in the 20th century, many Nigerians including Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo identified as Muslims. They became overwhelmingly Christian under colonization.
In the wake of decolonization, the Igbo developed a strong sense of ethnic identity.
During the Nigerian Civil War of 1967–1970 the Igbo territories seceded as the short-lived Republic of Biafra.
In modern day context, there is somewhat of a social-stigma that Igbo people perceive themselves as "proud" and they've asserted themselves in society as business magnates in the NEE of Nigeria.
2. The genetics of Igbo peopleThe Igbo in Nigeria are found in Anambra, Benue, Delta and Rivers State.
The Igbo language is predominant throughout these areas, although Nigerian English (the national language) is spoken as well.
Prominent towns and cities in Igboland include Aba, Enugu (considered the 'Igbo capital'
A significant number of Igbo people have migrated to other parts of Nigeria, such as the cities of Lagos, Abuja, and Kano.
3. The significance of Igbo people
After the
Nigerian-Biafran War, many Igbo people emigrated out of the indigenous Igbo homeland in southeastern Nigeria due to an absence of federal presence, lack of jobs and poor health-care services!
A large amount of the African population of China are Igbo-speaking and are mainly businessmen trading between factories in China and southeastern Nigeria, particularly Enugu.
Igbo culture includes the various customs, practices and traditions of the people.
The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano was published in London, England, written by a former slave of Igbo heritage. I really recommend you read this book, as I have been touched by it and it is rightfully controversial for highlighting the atrocities commited against blacks in 1700s England!
Another book I've read from an Igbo author is "
Why I'm no longer talking to white people about race" written by Reni Eddo-Lodge.
So all in all, Igbo people are quite eccentric and come in all shapes and forms.
I'm really sorry though that so many (due to their position in western Africa) were bought and sold as slaves.
Igbos have lost over 3.5 million people and over £50bn due to white interference! (NASlaveTrade)
They still however hold prominent position today and are reshaping Africa!
Notable Igbo include: Buchi Emecheta and Tinie Tempah (UK music industry)
Thank you for reading!
Here are pictures of the Igbo people, its culture and beautiful origins!