Cultural / carnival day at the NYSC orientation camp

It was indeed a colorful day at the NYSC orientation camp. Koppas were dressed in various Nigerian cultural attires and costumes. We portrayed different cultures and tribes and what each activity represented.

What's the occasion? It was the inter-platoon carnival/ cultural day in my orientation camp. I looked forward to this day so much that I had to prepare my outfit days before this event.

We started this colorful event with a procession of all platoons showcasing their different cultural displays. We marched from the gate of the camp down to the parade ground that was well decorated and ready for the event.

The different tribes and cultures displayed in this event were:

• Igbo
• Hausa /Fulani
• Ijaw
• Efik
• Gbagji
• Niger delta
• Idoma
• Tiv
• Yoruba
• Mada

These cultures were presented in very beautiful attire. These cultures were presented by different platoons ranging from 1 to 10.

The igbo tribe gave a wonderful entrance with a popular traditional song. They danced the indigenous dance of the people. These tribes in Nigeria basically consist of the eastern region of the country with a good number of indigenes. Most states in this tribe include: Enugu, Anambra, Imo, Abia, Ebonyi etc.

The hausa/Fulani is another very beautiful culture with thousands of citizens dressed in beautiful clothing. The platoon representing this tribe did exact justice to this tribe. They displayed a short drama portraying the Emir's daughter getting married to a Fulani man. They showcased all the proceedings and processes with the rites performed.

The Efik tribe made a beautiful performance as well. They danced so well with their colorful costumes. Efik tribe is basically consisting of the Akwa Ibom and cross river inhabitants.

The Gbagji tribe is most populated by the indigenous people of Abuja and partly Nasarawa state. They indigenes treasure farm work alot and they cultivate yam and other food items. Their hunters dressed in a very funny manner, it was quite different, unique and special.

The Tiv tribe is another very beautiful culture to watch. They were dressed in their beautiful attire , danced their indigenous dance and also performed a short drama portraying the rich heritage of their culture. I really needed to take beautiful pictures with these guys in their unique dressing.

The Idoma people are a very interesting set of people. Their colorful outfit, dance, and processions were exceptional. I love that their king was well dressed with his two wives to his left and right. It was a beautiful sight indeed. Their body movement was so beautiful, I really admired this culture.

After all the performances were over, the winner of the culture day carnival was announced and it happens to be the Gbagji tribe and culture. The jubilation was high and all the platoon 2 members rejoiced in their success.

Gbagji tribe hunters and winner of the carnival competition

Then there was a man o war presentation by the special squad. This special squad consisted of selected corp members. They were probably trained and they carried such a wonderful performance.

The event was graced with top NYSC officials both states and national. It was a beautiful experience. I met and interacted with other tribes which I wasn't even familiar with. I loved every minute. I look forward to something like this again.