The payment of bride price by the groom and his family is an essential aspect of formalizing the union between a man and woman in many cultures. In Nigeria, this practice is deeply rooted in African tradition and varies across different tribes.
According to a report by Vanguard, here is a list of some of the most considerable bride prices in Nigeria, highlighting the cultural significance and diversity associated with marriage in the country.
Imo state
Getting married to a Mbaise lady from Imo state is amongst the most expensive in Nigeria. …CONTINUE READING
The Mbaise people are found in three local government areas in Imo state (Aboh Mbaise, Ahiazu Mbaise, and Ezinihitte Mbaise).
This is so because of the several components that make up their traditional marriage list, or Ime Ego in Igbo.
The traditional marriage rite involves multiple steps before a Mbaise lady can become someone else’s wife.
The last step in the marriage process is the list which contains several items. It will take up to a million naira in presently day Nigeria to get the items on the marriage list.
Adamawa state
The second state on this list is Adamawa state. The Bororo, a subgroup of the Fulani ethnic group makes huge demands before giving their daughters out in marriage.
According to the Bororo tradition, the groom is required to provide livestock, specifically cows, as part of the bride price.
The demand for livestock is influenced by their livestock and pastoral lifestyle, where cattle represent wealth, status, and sustenance.
Depending on the family’s status, the bride’s background, and the negotiations between the two families the number of cows demanded can vary significantly.
This decision makes bride prices among the Bororo tribe very expensive as the market value of cows in Nigeria is not for the poor.
The livestock demand varies ranging from 10 to 50 cows depending on the family’s status, the bride’s background, and the negotiations between the groom and bride’s families.
Rivers State
Representing the south-south are the Okiriika, Ikwerre, Kalabari, and Ogoni people. Their bride price is one of the most expensive states in Nigeria. The marriage process involves multiple steps, with the bride price being an integral part of formalising the union between the bride and the groom.
The groom is expected to provide monetary payments, and material items and pay for the bride’s family lineage (called “ame nda”) and various traditional rites. Adding to the cost and complexity are gifts for extended family members and even community elders in some cases
It is seen as a rite of passage that cements familial bonds and demonstrates the groom’s capability to provide for his new family.
Akwa Ibom State
The Annang and Ibibio people in Akwa Ibom state complete the list of the most expensive bride prices in Nigeria.
The marriage list which includes the payment of bride price is almost 4 pages long. The monetary aspect varies significantly depending on the families involved in the marriage.
The list is accompanied by ceremonial gifts and community involvement, which can further escalate the costs.
