THE RICH CULTURE OF THE NGWA PEOPLE

 

The Rich Culture of the Ngwa People 

 

The Ngwá people, one of the largest Igbo subgroups, reside predominantly in Abia State, Nigeria, possess a vibrant and deeply rooted culture that is expressed through their unique traditions, communal gatherings, and daily life. This article explores some of the most prominent facets of Ngwa culture: its flavorful cuisine, rhythmic music and dance, and the profound significance of its naming ceremonies. 

The are known for their vibrant cultural heritage, distinct traditions, and communal lifestyle that have been preserved across generations. Their culture remains a vital expression of identity, unity, and pride, reflected through their cuisine, music, dance, and social ceremonies. 

Ngwá Cuisine: A Taste of Home and Heritage 

Ngwá cuisine is a celebration of local ingredients, creativity, and deep cultural connection. Food among the Ngwá people goes beyond nourishment. It symbolizes hospitality, identity, and togetherness. 

As a primarily agrarian society, their staple dishes include fufu known as akpu in Ngwá land made from fermented cassava and slightly oiled garri known as garri Ngwá or garri ụlọ usually served with richly flavored watery soups known as ofe ngoorongooro or ofe miri miri, ofe ukazi la akpurakpu mgbam, ofe ntụrụkpa etc, and the widely cherished ede la manu-ri(cocoyam and red oil), akara -igboro this dish is a unique "cassava cake" made from grated cassava, which is then mixed with palm oil, crayfish, salt sugar and other spices before being cooked. 

Locally made palm oil, native spices, and vegetables give these meals their distinctive color and aroma.                                        During festive events and family gatherings, delicacies such as mgbam echekporo echekpo (carefully spiced, molded and dried balls of baked melon seeds (egusi))  and freshly tapped ngwo (palm wine) are served generously, reinforcing the Ngwá spirit of hospitality and community. 

 

Ngwá Music and Dance: The Voice of the People and Living Art of Expression  

Music in Ngwá culture is more than entertainment. It is a tool for storytelling, praise, and moral instruction. Traditionally, songs accompany every stage of life, from birth to marriage and even death. 

Music and dance are integral to Ngwa community life, serving as primary forms of celebration, and social cohesion.          Cultural music is performed by dedicated groups, such as the "Oha Ngwa cultural masters," who uphold traditional rhythms and lyrical styles.                                         These performances are central to major festivals, including: 

Ekpe Festival: A significant annual event celebrated with masquerades and vibrant dances. 

Owu Masquerade: A ceremonial masquerade that involves intricate costumes and rhythmic dancing. 

Ogene: The sound of ogene (gong), ekwe (wooden slit drum), and melodic call-and-response patterns.  

Dance occupies a central place in Ngwá culture. It is both a form of artistic expression and a means of social communication. Every dance tells a story whether it’s joy, victory, courtship, or gratitude. 

Ikoro Festival: A community event that uses music and dance to convey stories and cultural values. 

The music is often characterized by powerful drumming, vocal chants, and the use of traditional instruments, creating an energetic atmosphere that invites communal participation.                                                 Ikoro dance is usually performed during festivals, coronations, and communal celebrations. The energetic body movements, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic drum patterns make Ngwá dance not just a performance, but a reflection of the people’s strength and unity. 

 

Naming Ceremony: A Celebration of Life and Legacy 

Among the Ngwá people, a naming ceremony known as "igu nwa aha"is a sacred occasion that welcomes a newborn into the community. Names are not chosen casually; they reflect the family’s values, experiences, or hopes for the child. 

For example, names like Nmesoma (“My goodness”), Chigozirim (“God has blessed me”), Obinna (“Father’s heart”) and Chituru convey deep spiritual and emotional meanings. 

The ceremony often takes place on the eighth day after birth, attended by family members, relatives, elders, and friends.    The ceremony is traditionally officiated by the paternal grandparents.                          And begins with the ceremonial breaking of kola nuts and the pouring of libations, offering thanks and prayers for the child's life as the child is introduced to the ancestors and the community at large.  

The Ngwá culture, in all its forms, continues to thrive because of its people’s commitment to heritage and unity. Whether through the aroma of traditional meals, the rhythm of drums, or the joy of community gatherings, the Ngwá identity stands as a proud testament to the beauty of culture.

Ngwa Day Celebration is a commemoration of all these aspects of the Ngwa people so as not to go into extinct as well as keep the younger generation of Ngwa's informed and educated to enable them uphold our culture and traditions.

Ngwa Day Celebration debuted last year 2024 promises a unique outing this year 2025 tilted towards portraying Ngwa's unique traditions, communal gatherings, and daily life re enacted for all to see.

All Ngwa men, women and children are expected to grace this eventful occasion while welcoming all and sundry from different parts of the world to behold the aesthetic cultural display of the Ngwa Nation.