NAME IBRAHIM TONGZUM GOTOM

MATRIC NUMBER 2169

DEPARTMENT MASS COMMUNICATION ND2

COURSE INTONATION TO SOCIOLOGY

ASSIGNMENT

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of kingship system in Nigeria.Critically showing it's
implications in modern Nigeria.

Introduction

The kinship system in Nigeria, like in many other societies, plays a significant role in shaping social
relationships, cultural practices, and the organization of communities. There are both advantages and
disadvantages to the kinship system in Nigeria, and these have implications for modern Nigerian society.

Advantages of the Kinship System in Nigeria:

The kinship system fosters strong bonds and a sense of belonging among family members and extended
relatives. This promotes social cohesion and mutual support within communities.

It often intertwined with traditional customs, rituals, and values, which help preserve Nigeria's rich
cultural heritage and traditions.

Within the kinship system, there is often a strong tradition of mutual aid and economic cooperation
among family members, which can provide a safety net during times of need.

Kinship system can extend into the political realm, where influential families or clans may have a
significant impact on local or regional politics, providing a sense of representation and support for
community interests.
Disadvantages of the Kinship System in Nigeria:

the disadvantage of kinship system is Nepotism and Corruption The strong emphasis on kinship
systems can lead to nepotism and favoritism in various aspects of society, including politics, business,
and employment, which can undermine meritocracy and fairness.

The kinship system often comes with expectations and obligations that can limit individual freedom and
choice, particularly in matters such as marriage, career, and personal decisions.

Gender Inequality: Traditional kinship systems in Nigeria can perpetuate gender inequalities, with
women often having limited agency and decision-making power within the family and community
structures.

In some cases, disputes within extended families or clans can lead to prolonged conflicts and divisions,
which may have wider implications for social stability and community relations.

Implications in Modern Nigeria:

In modern Nigeria, the kinship system continues to have a significant impact on social, economic, and
political dynamics. While it provides a strong support network and preserves cultural traditions, it also
presents challenges in terms of governance, economic development, and social equality.

The implications of the kinship system in modern Nigeria include:

1. Political Influence: Kinship ties can influence political dynamics, leading to concerns about governance
transparency, accountability, and the fair representation of diverse interests.

2. Economic Development: The prevalence of nepotism and favoritism can hinder merit-based economic
opportunities and fair competition, impacting overall economic growth and social mobility.
3. Social Justice: Gender inequalities and restrictions on individual autonomy within the kinship system
pose challenges to achieving greater social justice and gender equality in modern Nigeria.

4. Community Relations: While kinship ties can foster strong community bonds, conflicts within
extended families or clans can also lead to social divisions and tensions that affect broader community
relations.

In conclusion, the kinship system in Nigeria has both positive and negative aspects, and its implications
in modern Nigeria are complex. While it provides social cohesion, cultural preservation, and mutual
support, it also presents challenges related to governance, economic development, and social equality.
Addressing these challenges requires a nuanced understanding of the role of kinship in Nigerian society
and efforts to promote fairness, inclusivity, and equal opportunity.