Nigerian Wedding Traditions Explained: Yoruba, Igbo & Hausa

Nigerian weddings are big, joyful and full of tradition. Nigeria has hundreds of ethnic groups, each with its own customs, but most weddings you'll attend in Lagos, London or Houston will draw on Yoruba, Igbo or Hausa traditions. Here's what to expect.

Two (or more) ceremonies

Many Nigerian couples hold a traditional wedding (the cultural union of the two families) and a white wedding (church or court) on separate days, sometimes followed by a big reception. Muslim couples may hold a nikah or fatiha ceremony.

Yoruba traditional wedding (engagement)

• The families meet formally. Two women MCs often lead the ceremony, one for each family, guiding it with humour and proverbs.
• The groom and his friends prostrate to greet the bride's family as a sign of respect.
• Gifts are presented, often listed in advance by the bride's family.
• The bride enters in aso-oke with a gele, and the couple are prayed for and celebrated.

Igbo traditional wedding (igba nkwu)

• Igba nkwu means "wine carrying". The highlight is when the bride, holding a cup of palm wine, searches the crowd for her groom, offers him the drink, and he sips to show she has chosen him.
• Before the ceremony, there are formal visits between the families and the bride price is settled.
• Expect George wrappers, coral beads and lots of dancing.

Hausa / Northern weddings

• Gifts and the dowry are agreed and presented between families.
• The religious ceremony (fatiha) is often held at a mosque.
• Festivities may include henna for the bride and separate celebrations for women.

Traditions you'll see at most Nigerian weddings

• Aso-ebi: family and friends wearing matching fabric. See what aso-ebi means.
• Spraying: guests shower the couple with banknotes on the dance floor.
• Food: jollof rice is almost guaranteed, often with fried rice, small chops, pounded yam and soups.
• Live music and long dancing sessions: bring comfortable shoes.
• Gifts: cash gifts and household items are common; follow the couple's wishes.

Etiquette tips for guests

• Greet elders respectfully; in Yoruba culture a slight bow or kneel is appreciated.
• Don't wear the aso-ebi colours unless you bought the aso-ebi.
• Expect the timing to be flexible. Ceremonies often start later than printed.
• Join the dancing; hosts love enthusiastic guests.

Getting your outfit

Read what to wear to a Nigerian wedding, men's traditional attire and our gele guide. Fabric and outfits are cheapest in Lagos markets like Tejuosho, and you can order from abroad.

Frequently asked questions

What happens at a Nigerian traditional wedding?

The two families formally unite. Depending on the ethnic group there is a formal introduction, presentation of gifts and bride price, prayers and blessings, symbolic rituals involving the bride and groom, followed by food, music and dancing.

What is spraying money at a Nigerian wedding?

Spraying is when guests place or shower banknotes on the couple, usually on the dance floor, as a sign of joy and good wishes.

How long does a Nigerian wedding last?

A Nigerian wedding celebration often lasts most of the day, and many couples hold a traditional wedding and a church or court wedding on separate days.