10 Traditions in Nigeria Still Holding Us Back

Tradition is important, but it should not be a prison. As Nigeria strives for growth, we must be willing to question customs that limit our potential.

Cultural preservation should never come at the cost of human dignity, progress, or equality.

It’s time to adapt—keeping what uplifts us, and letting go of what holds us back.

1. Female genital mutilation

This is still practiced in some parts of Nigeria, especially in rural communities. It causes severe pain, infection, trauma, and long-term health problems. Though often done to preserve “purity,” it violates girls’ rights and must end.

2. Child marriage

Girls are often married off at a young age, especially in Northern regions. This stops them from completing school, puts their health at risk through early childbirth, and traps them in a cycle of poverty and dependence.

3. Widowhood rites

In some cultures, widows are forced to undergo degrading rituals like shaving their heads, sleeping on the floor, or drinking water used to wash the corpse. These customs humiliate women during a time of grief and should be stopped.

4. Male child preference

Many families value boys more than girls, which leads to unequal treatment in education, inheritance, and family decisions. This mindset limits women’s roles in society and hinders gender equality.

5. Denial of inheritance to women

In several Nigerian communities, women are not allowed to inherit property or land simply because of tradition. This denies them financial independence and reinforces inequality.

6. Witchcraft accusations

Accusing people, especially children or the elderly, of being witches leads to abuse, abandonment, and sometimes death. These beliefs are based on fear and superstition, not facts.

7. Stigma against mental illness

Mental health problems are often blamed on evil spirits or curses. Instead of seeking medical treatment, people may be hidden away or taken to prayer houses, where they are mistreated or ignored.

8. Resistance to girls’ education

Some traditional beliefs still discourage girls from going to school. They are seen as future wives and mothers only. This limits their future and holds back the nation’s development.

9. Tribalism

People are often judged or favored based on their ethnic group instead of their abilities. This causes division, slows down national unity, and promotes unfairness in politics, work, and marriage.

10. Blind respect for elders

In many homes, elders are never questioned, even when they are wrong. This culture silences young people, protects abusers, and prevents accountability and progress.