Traditions of Nigeria

Hausa birthdays are traditional a mix of Islamic practices. In Hausa, Happy Birthday is said as Barka da ranar haihuwa. 

Yoruba birthdays often include elaborate parties to celebrate. At the celebration, family members were outfits of the same fabric as the celebrant. This practice is called Aso Ebi.  In Yoruba, Happy Birthday is said as Eku ojo ibi. 

In Igbo culture, birthdays are celebrated with family gatherings where Ibo Ekpere, which are traditional prayers, are said in the honor of the celebrant.  7 weeks After a baby is born in Igbo culture a naming ceremony for a baby takes place. 

Hausa funerals typically follow Islamic burial traditions.  Typically in Hausa funerals the deceased are buried as soon as possible which is usually within 24 hours of death. Families will continue to mourn after and prayers or gatherings are held in honor of the person.  

Yoruba funeral traditions usually have an extended mourning period. This period can last anywhere from one month to a year. The mourning period leaves time for elaborate preparations and to save for funeral expenses as funeral ceremonies can be very elaborate.  The ceremony can be week-long. These ceremonies can have anything from drums to a funeral play.  In Yoruba culture, widows often will mourn for anywhere from 40 days to three months by staying indoors. 

Igbo funerals typically have two phases to the burial process. There is an initial burial which happens soon after death. The "Second Burial" which is called Ikwa Ozu is held months or years after the initial burial. Ikwa Ozu means "celebrating the dead" which is typically a lavish celebration in honor of the deceased.  There is typically a large amount spent on livestock and alcohol for the celebration and it can last from a day to many days. At the celebration, the immediate relatives participate in a tradition called Aso Ebi which is when all the immediate relatives are expected to dress the same. In Igbo culture, Widows may be expected to wear mourning clothes and shave their heads as part of the grieving process.