Culture and Tradition of The Tiv

Culture generally refers to the way of life of people. The people of Tiv have some of the most unique cultures in Nigeria. Their traditions have been passed from one generation to another.

African dance, performing art deeply woven into the social fabric of Africa and generally involving aspects of music and theatre as well as rhythmic bodily movement.

The Tiv people belong to a minor ethnic group in Nigeria numbering about six million. They have a rich history associated with their existence. The culture and tradition of the Tiv people is one that is envied by many who come in contact with them.

Facts about The Tiv People

They occupy the middle belt region of Nigeria, comprising of states such As Benue, Taraba, Nassarawa and Plateau.

They can also be found in Cameroun.

They are predominantly Christians although Islam is also practiced among them.

They are great farmers producing crops such as yam, cassava, maize, mellon etc

Tiv land stretches from Agede in Benue in the south east, Iyala, Gekem and Obudu in Cross River, Chambam and Junkun of Taraba in the northeast and Idoma of Benue in the south.

Music is part of the culture of the Tiv people. They have being able to advance a form of communication that blends music intricately with it. This communication promotes the use of various traditional musical instruments such as;

Kakaki:

 An instrument which is used to pass important messages to the community. This message could be the crowning of the King, the birth of the King’s son, the marriage of the King’s son or during an attack by opposing community. Members of the community are told to gather at the village square.

Gbande :

 This is a large musical instrument played by young men of the community during festival. The gbande produces strong rhythms when played and it beats carry with it messages to the people. It is significant during occasion like coronation and death of the King.

Adiguve:

This instrument resembles the violin and it is one of the popular musical instruments used by the Tiv people. During festival, the Adiguve is played to the admiration of all. It is also symbolic during the death of an elder in the community.