The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) intangible cultural heritage elements are the non-physical traditions and practices performed by a people. As part of a country's cultural heritage, they include celebrations, festivals, performances, oral traditions, music, and the making of handicrafts. The "intangible cultural heritage" is defined by the Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, drafted in 2003 and took effect in 2006. Inscription of new heritage elements on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists for their protection and safeguard is determined by the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, an organisation established by the convention.
Nigeria ratified the convention on 21 October 2005.
Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Representative List Name Image Year No. Description Ifa divination system 2008 00146 Ifá is a geomantic system originating from Yorubaland. Oral heritage of Gelede 2008 00002 The Gẹlẹdẹ spectacle of the Yoruba is a public display by colorful masks which combines art and ritual dance to amuse, educate and inspire worship. Ijele masquerade 2009 00194 Ijele Masquerade, that is the biggest masquerade in Sub-Saharan Africa, is a tradition of the Igbo people. Argungu international fishing and cultural festival 2016 00901 The Argungu Fishing Festival is an annual four-day festival. Kwagh-Hir theatrical performance 2019 00683 Kwagh-Hir is a multipart culturally edifying art form of the Tiv people. Sango Festival, Oyo 2023 01974 Sango Festival is an annual festival held among the Yoruba people in honour of Sango Midwifery: knowledge, skills and practices + 2023 01968 A midwife is a health professional who cares for mothers and newborns. Durbar in Kano 2024 01895 The Durbar festival in Kano is an annual cultural, religious and equestrian festival, celebrated as a core part of Hausa culture.
See also List of World Heritage Sites in Nigeria
Notes
References
External links UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage: Official site UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Nigeria: Official site