Titles

Erin Annunziato

Titles are the names people go by indicating their job, social class, education, etc. An example in the Western society would be addressing your teacher as “Mrs. Smith.” The “Mrs.” is her title, and indicates that she is married and is either older, or in a position to be respected. In Nigeria, titles include “mrs.” and “mr.,” but the important titles signify one’s religion, education, profession, or, most importantly, chieftaincy status.

Traditionally: Titles were very important in Nigerian society, the most important title being of chieftaincy. Being a chief was similar to be a small god; the title defines a person’s social class and raises you from the lowly status of commoner. Becoming a chief was the peak of one’s achievement in life, and in order to obtain the title, one must have significantly helped the community, and one also must have been wealthy and intelligent.

Now: Chieftaincy titles may considered corrupt in the present day. The title generally reflects a person’s financial standing, and their are benefits to having a title. Getting a title is very costly; the minimum one usually pays for a chieftaincy titles is $200,000 to $250,000, and one can usually obtain an honorary title by donating $10,000 to one’s home area. Many people use their titles for political gain- by showing off their titles, a running politician can “sell himself” in the elections (Nigerians go crazy for a title). Most prominent Nigerians, including politicians, hold a title. Some Nigerians believe that traditional titles may not be as respected as they once were, and the importance of such titles is a controversial value. There are also differing opinions on whether or not the role of titles is beneficial and positive or hurtful and negative to Nigeria.



Picture Source: http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44325000/jpg/_44325181_05_nigeria_chiefs_ap.jpg http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_HmDOjU_yWWc/TFmVwohtFcI/AAAAAAAABb0/jaKiqPAcFK8/s1600/as+copy+copy.JPG

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