External Influences on

Nigerian Family Life

WALT
• Today, we will learn:
1. Identify foreign influences on Nigerian family life.
2. Understand how religion influences Nigerian
family life.
External Influences Defined
• External influences are lifestyles from other parts
of the world that Nigerians now adopt and
practice.
• These influences mainly come from Europe, the
Middle East (Arab countries), and the United States
of America.
Nigerian Family Life Before
Foreign Influences
• In the past, Nigerian family life was simpler. Family
members, including children, contributed to the
family's well-being.
• Marriage practices were based on African
traditions, and clothing and lifestyles were
influenced by ethnic groups.
Influence from Foreign Countries
• Contact with foreigners has changed Nigerian
family life in various ways.
• Factors responsible for these changes include
education, food habits, baby feeding, religion,
marriage practices, extended family, music, and
language.
Education
• Traditional education within families has shifted to
Western education due to foreign influence.
• Children now attend schools away from home,
taught by trained teachers.
Food and Eating Habits
• Traditional local foods have been replaced by
processed foods from foreign countries.
• Eating habits have changed, with many now using
cutlery instead of fingers.
Baby Feeding Habits
• Traditional breast milk feeding has been
supplemented with various baby foods, often
produced from cow's milk.
Religion
• African traditional religions have been influenced by
Christianity and Islam.
• These modern religions have different beliefs and
practices.
Marriage Practice
• Young people now have more say in choosing their
partners, moving away from arranged marriages.
• Different marriage types, including Christian,
Muslim, and ordinance marriages, coexist with
traditional forms.
Extended Family Practice
• The extended family practice is fading, and many
prefer smaller nuclear families.
Music
• Traditional music is giving way to Western music,
with changes in instruments and recording
methods.
Language
• Indigenous languages are at risk as parents and
schools favor English for communication.
Influence of Religion on Nigerian
Family Life
• Religion affects marriage patterns, with Christianity
promoting monogamy and Islam allowing multiple
wives.
Importance of Preserving Cultural
Heritage
• Preserving our cultural heritage is essential. While
change can be positive, it's equally important to
hold onto our traditions and values. This helps us
maintain our identity and unique way of life.
Conclusion
• In summary, foreign influences have significantly
impacted Nigerian family life, affecting education,
food, religion, marriage, extended family, music,
and language. Religion has also shaped marriage
patterns.