The Evolution of Celebration in Nigeria
Celebration has always been a part of human culture, marking significant milestones and achievements. In Nigeria, the way people celebrate various events has evolved dramatically over the years, often reaching levels that could be considered excessive or even extravagant. From winning elections to excelling in exams, from weddings to birthdays, Nigerians have developed unique and sometimes over-the-top ways to commemorate these moments.
This phenomenon has led to some events being so grand that they could be considered new world records. However, the manner in which these celebrations are conducted raises concerns about their appropriateness and the financial burden they place on individuals and families.
The Problem with Excessive Celebrations
One of the most concerning aspects of these celebrations is the cost involved. For instance, students celebrating their graduation after completing their last examination paper have tragically lost their lives due to the reckless nature of such events. This has prompted several states in Nigeria to take action by banning certain types of graduation ceremonies.
Imo State was among the first to implement this measure, prohibiting graduation parties for kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School (JSS) 3 students. The state government cited the financial burden placed on parents and guardians as the primary reason for this ban. According to the education commissioner, only pupils graduating from Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School (SSS) 3 are allowed to hold graduation ceremonies.
However, it’s important to note that the Nigerian education system follows a 6-3-3-4 structure, which includes six years of primary education and three years at the JSS level, making up the 9-year basic education. Therefore, there is no graduation ceremony at the end of primary education, as it is mandatory for every pupil to continue their education until the end of JSS 3.
Other states, including Edo, Benue, Ondo, and Ekiti, have also implemented similar bans. These measures aim to focus on improving the quality of education rather than organizing elaborate parties.
Cultural Influences on Celebration
The way Nigerians celebrate has also been influenced by globalization. Traditions that were once confined to specific communities have now spread across the country. For example, the concept of wearing matching outfits, known as “Anko” or “Aso oke,” was originally a Yoruba tradition but has now become widespread across different ethnic groups.
In the past, people wore dresses of their choice to celebrate events. However, this practice has evolved into an elitist tradition where celebrants choose the color, style, and design of the outfit that all invited guests must wear. This trend has extended beyond weddings to include social, educational, and religious occasions.
The Burden of Excessive Spending
The financial burden of these celebrations is significant, especially for low-income families. Parents are often forced to take loans to meet the demands of their children’s graduation ceremonies. The costs associated with Aso oke, cake, food, drinks, and gifts add up, creating unnecessary expenditure.
This extravagance is particularly concerning when many neighbors struggle to afford basic necessities. As the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) exhorts us to exercise moderation in all we do, spending large sums on kindergarten graduations or birthday parties defies common sense and shows ingratitude to Allah.
A Call for Moderation
If celebration means appreciating Allah, there are more meaningful ways to express gratitude. Engaging in voluntary forms of worship, such as fasting, prayers, giving alms to the needy, and settling medical bills for the sick, can be more fulfilling than extravagant celebrations.
It is time for Nigerians to re-evaluate their approach to celebration and prioritize investments in the future of their communities. Funds spent on unnecessary celebrations could be used to construct classrooms, build mosques, or provide medical equipment in health facilities.
May Allah guide us to discard the mentality of excessive celebration and embrace a more grateful and moderate way of life. Amin.
