Abstract:
The Nigerian identity is a complex tapestry woven from centuries of historical, cultural, and socio-political threads. This article seeks to delve into the multifaceted essence of Nigerian identity by examining its roots through historical and cultural contexts. Nigeria, with its diverse ethnic groups, languages, and traditions, presents a rich landscape for exploring identity formation. By tracing back to pre-colonial times, we uncover the foundational elements that shaped the Nigerian identity, from the empires that once thrived to the intercultural exchanges that occurred through intergroup relations. The colonial era introduced significant disruptions, leaving indelible marks on societal structures, cultural practices, and collective consciousness. The instrumentalist theory of identity served as the theoretical foundation for this investigation. The method of data analysis employed in the research is the descriptive analytical historical approach. This exploration aims to shed light on the Nigerian identity. It seeks to unravel the layers of influences, internal and external, that have shaped perceptions of self and collective national perspective in Nigeria. The essence is to understand the complexities embedded within the Nigerian identity, so as to foster greater appreciation, empathy, and solidarity among its diverse populace and beyond. The study's findings show that Nigerian identity issues are the result of historically ingrained instrumentalisation of identity by both colonial and post-colonial actors rather than unavoidable consequences of variety. Understanding identity through the instrumentalist framework reveals that national cohesiveness can only be attained by eliminating the political incentives that encourage ethnic polarisation and by advancing inclusive narratives and cultural pluralism.
Keywords: Nigerian Identity, Historical and Cultural Contexts
DOI: 10.36349/sokotojh.2026.v14i01.010
author/ATTAH, Jonathan & DANSONKA, Sule Mordakai
journal/Sokoto JH | Vol. 14, Issue 1 | Dec. 2026
