Centers of Ancient Civilization in Nigeria – SS3 Nigerian History Lesson Note (First Term)

The early centres of civilisation in Nigeria were Nok, Igbo-Ukwu, Ife and Benin. Each is known for its art and skilled work: Nok for terracotta, Igbo-Ukwu for bronze and copper, Ife for naturalistic sculpture, and Benin for bronze plaques and ivory carvings. They traded and shared ideas with neighbouring groups across Nigeria.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Describe the features of the early centres of civilisation in Nigeria.
2. Discuss the relationship between these centres of ancient civilisation and other groups in Nigeria.

Instructional techniques and materials

Instructional techniques

• Identification
• Explanation
• Questions and answers
• Demonstration
• Videos from source

Instructional materials

• Videos
• Loudspeaker
• Textbook
• Pictures

What were the early centres of civilisation in Nigeria?

Features of Nok

The Nok civilisation, dating back to around 1500 BCE to 200 CE, is known for its terracotta sculptures, particularly the iconic Nok heads. The Nok people were skilled ironworkers and practised agriculture, hunting and fishing as their main occupations.

Artistic works: Terracotta sculptures, especially the Nok heads, depicting human figures with detailed hairstyles and facial features.

Features of Igbo-Ukwu

The Igbo-Ukwu civilisation flourished between the 9th and 10th centuries CE and is known for its detailed bronze and copper artefacts. The occupations of the people included bronze and copper metallurgy, agriculture and trade.

Artistic works: Finely designed bronze and copper artefacts, including ceremonial vessels, masks and jewellery.

Features of the Ife civilisation

The Ife civilisation, dating back to the 12th century CE, is renowned for its naturalistic and highly expressive bronze, terracotta and stone sculptures. The Ife people were skilled artisans, engaged in sculpture, metallurgy and agriculture.

Artistic works: Naturalistic and lifelike sculptures made from bronze, terracotta and stone, portraying human figures with elaborate headdresses and facial scarification.

Features of the Benin civilisation

The Benin civilisation, originating around the 13th century CE, is famous for its elaborate bronze plaques, sculptures and ivory carvings. The occupations in Benin included bronze casting, ivory carving, trade, agriculture and governance.

Artistic works: Elaborate bronze plaques depicting historical events, royal court scenes and symbolic motifs, along with ivory carvings and brass sculptures.

What was the relationship between these centres and other groups in Nigeria?

1. These centres of ancient civilisation served as hubs of cultural exchange, trade and interaction with neighbouring communities and ethnic groups.
2. Trade networks facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas and artistic techniques, contributing to the cultural diffusion and enrichment of surrounding regions.
3. They often exerted political and cultural influence over neighbouring societies through diplomacy, military conquest and economic dominance.
4. The artistic and technological achievements of these civilisations inspired and influenced the artistic traditions of other groups in Nigeria and beyond, shaping the wider culture of the region.

Evaluation

1. Describe the features of the Nok and Benin civilisations.
2. Identify four relationships between these centres of ancient civilisation and other groups in Nigeria.

Assignment

Classwork: As in the evaluation.

The teacher commends the students positively.