The Special Things About Ngwa People: Culture, Pride, and Legacy
Ngwa people, a subgroup of the Igbo ethnic group in southeastern Nigeria, are primarily found in the present-day Abia State. As one of the largest and most influential Igbo clans, the Ngwa people are known for their rich cultural heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep-rooted communal values. This blog explores the special things that make the Ngwa people unique and deeply respected within and beyond the Igbo land.
1. Historical Significance
Ngwa land has a long and vibrant history dating back centuries. According to oral tradition, the Ngwa people migrated from the Orlu area in present-day Imo State and settled in the fertile lands around the Imo River. Over time, they expanded and formed autonomous communities that preserved their customs and dialect. Their settlements are among the oldest in Abia State, with many traditional institutions still intact.
2. Rich Cultural Heritage
a. Traditional Attire
Ngwa people take pride in their traditional clothing. Men are often adorned in George wrappers, shirts, and walking sticks, while women dress elegantly in double wrappers (iro), blouses, and beads. These attires are prominently displayed during festivals and weddings, reflecting their cultural dignity.
b. Festivals and Ceremonies
The Ngwa calendar is filled with festivals such as the Iri ji ohuru (new yam festival), which celebrates harvest and thanksgiving. Traditional marriages, known as igba nkwu, are elaborate events filled with music, dance, and cultural symbolism.
3. The Ngwa Dialect
Though they speak Igbo, the Ngwa people have a distinct dialect that is widely recognized and respected. The dialect is not only a means of communication but a source of identity and pride. It reflects the group's ingenuity in preserving their linguistic roots even in a changing world.
4. Agricultural Prowess
Ngwa land is blessed with fertile soil, which the people have used to their advantage for generations. They are traditionally farmers, cultivating crops like yam, cassava, maize, and vegetables. Women also play a strong role in local markets, selling produce and handmade goods. Their agricultural strength contributed immensely to the food stability of the Eastern region in pre-colonial and post-independence Nigeria.
5. Entrepreneurial Spirit
One of the most admired traits of the Ngwa people is their strong entrepreneurial drive. They are found across Nigeria and beyond, excelling in various sectors such as trade, transport, education, hospitality, and manufacturing and technology. Ngwa sons and daughters are known for their determination to build wealth, not just for themselves but for their families and communities. A real Ngwa man is never lazy in business.
6. Education and Scholarship
Ngwa people value education highly. From the early days of missionary schools to modern institutions, Ngwa families have invested in learning as a pathway to social mobility. Today, the community boasts professors, scientists, engineers, writers, and successful professionals in many fields globally. In terms of scholarship, some of the real Ngwa son's and daughters sponsor the education of their students even from other countries like; Ngwa Union United States, Dallas, and many others, of which I was a beneficiary.
7. Resilience and Courage
History records the Ngwa people as resilient and fearless. During the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), Ngwa land bore significant hardship, yet the people stood firm in defense of their territory and beliefs. Their courage and ability to rebuild from adversity remains one of their strongest qualities. A good Ngwa indegen with the real spirit of an Ngwa man, does not fear war and is never intimidated. An Ngwa man is out spoken anywhere, every time. This is why they can succeed and survive anywhere in the world.
8. Community Leadership and Organization
Ngwa communities are known for their organized leadership structures. From the traditional rulers (Eze) to town unions and age grades (ndi ogbo), there is a system of order that fosters unity, accountability, and development. This sense of organization helps in mobilizing resources for community projects like roads, schools, and health centers. An Ngwa man has respect and recognition for his traditional leader.
9. Respect for Elders and Tradition
Ngwa culture places a high value on elders, who are seen as the custodians of tradition and wisdom. Respect for elders is instilled from a young age, and their blessings are considered essential in any major life decision, such as marriage or land acquisition. When an Ngwa child see his elder he will always greet with their dialect, " Mazi, Nawo Kaa nka ..." and the elder will happily respond, " Nde nwa m, nna nwafo..." Even the young children that are learning how to speak, they start by learning Ngwa greetings.
10. Art and Music
The Ngwa people are rich in artistic expressions. Traditional music such as ekpo, ikoro, and ogene drums are used in both celebration and mourning. Dance forms like egwu egwu and ije enyi display not only entertainment but storytelling and moral lessons. Their masquerades, especially during festivals, are a spectacle of colors and ancestral significance.
11. Ngwa Contributions to Politics and Governance
Over the years, Ngwa land has produced influential political leaders and policymakers. From local government chairs to senators and governors, down to auditor general, they have played key roles in shaping policies, especially in Abia State. The political awareness and participation of Ngwa people have earned them respect across Nigeria. Because of their spirit of courage, they don't believe in failure. Infact, no politician in the country, have ever pass election by neglecting the Ngwa people, from the state down to the federal level.
Conclusion
The Ngwa people are a shining example of a community that holds fast to tradition while embracing progress. From their language and attire to their achievements in business and education, Ngwa land continues to stand tall in the Nigerian cultural and historical landscape. Their story is one of pride, resilience, and cultural wealth — a legacy worth celebrating and preserving.
Ndewo nu, Ngwa bu nke anyi, ka anyi na-aga n' iru, n'iru!
(Greetings to all, Ngwa is ours Forward ever!)
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