66. Agbada

This is the agbada newly-elected Councilmember Will Jawando wore during the inauguration ceremony for the 19^th Montgomery County Council. He chose the agbada to honor his recently deceased father who immigrated to the United States from Nigeria, and to highlight his roots as a first-generation African American.

“To walk onto the inauguration stage in a full Agbada was both exciting and humbling,” said Councilmember Jawando. “Wearing a traditional Agbada allowed me to honor my father and my Nigerian heritage. It also sent a signal to all of our residents, of any race and ethnicity, that their voice and cultural heritage are essential parts of the community that is Montgomery County. “

The agbada is a traditional Nigerian garment dating back to the 12th century. It is worn in many areas of West Africa as formal dress marking important ceremonial occasions such as weddings and family events. It is comprised of 4 pieces: trousers that narrow at the ankle (sokoto), a long-sleeve shirt (awotele), a long free-flowing sleeveless robe worn over the pant and shirt, and the hat (fila). Agbada are almost always embroidered.

Next Artifact

Previous Artifact