A Survey of Weaving Traditions Among the Nupe People of Niger State

The Nupe people of Niger State in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone possess one of West Africa's most distinguished weaving traditions, producing complex hand-woven textiles that embody sophisticated technical skill and culturally specific aesthetic values. This study surveys weaving traditions among Nupe communities in Bida Local Government Area, documenting the techniques, tools, patterns, and social contexts of production through ethnographic fieldwork. A qualitative design is employed, combining structured observation at weaving workshops with semi-structured interviews conducted with 30 master weavers, 20 apprentices, and 10 textile traders in Bida's traditional craft market. The study documents the types of looms in use, the range of pattern types including geometric and figurative motifs, the natural and synthetic dyeing processes employed, and the cultural occasions for which specific textiles are traditionally produced. The theoretical framework draws on material culture studies, craft anthropology, and the indigenous knowledge preservation literature. The study evaluates the extent to which Nupe weaving traditions are being transmitted to younger generations and identifies the economic and social pressures that threaten knowledge continuity. Recent literature on Nigerian craft heritage has identified Bida as one of the few centres where traditional weaving retains significant economic relevance for practitioners, making it an important site for contextualising debates on craft revitalisation. Findings are intended for the Niger State Ministry of Culture, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, and cultural heritage organisations. Keywords: Nupe weaving, Bida, textile tradition, craft documentation, Niger State