The Preservation of Igbo Cultural Identity Through Traditional Marriage Rites in Kano, North West Nigeria

This study examines how Igbo migrants resident in Kano, North West Nigeria, preserve and transmit their cultural identity through the performance of traditional marriage rites. Cultural identity maintenance among ethnic minority communities in ecologically and culturally distinct host environments has become an increasingly salient research concern in contemporary Nigerian social science. The research adopts a qualitative case study design, utilising in-depth interviews with twenty-two Igbo families in Kano's Sabon Gari neighbourhood, supplemented by non-participant observation of three traditional marriage ceremonies conducted between 2023 and 2024. Findings indicate that traditional Igbo marriage rites, including bride price negotiation (iku aka), palm wine carrying ceremonies, and Igbo oral blessings, are adapted but largely preserved in the Kano diaspora context. Community associations play a central coordinating role in sustaining ritual knowledge and providing logistical support for ceremonies. The study identifies the role of digital communication platforms in connecting diaspora Igbo with relatives in the South East, facilitating the transmission of ceremonial knowledge across geography. Findings suggest that cultural identity is maintained more robustly in communities with active Igbo cultural unions. Recommendations include formalising diaspora cultural association activities and supporting inter-generational cultural education. Keywords: Igbo marriage rites, cultural identity, Kano diaspora, cultural preservation, Sabon Gari.