Baskadia

Kola nut Occupied important positions in the life and beliefs, system of the Igbo natives, of Nigeria West Africa as a fruits. 

 The history of the Igbo people and their connection with kola nuts dates back to ancient times. According to Igbo oral legends, tradition, the origin of the Igbo people can be traced to a legendary figure named Eri. Eri is believed to be the progenitor of the Igbo people and the founder of the ancient city of Nri in present-day Anambra State, Nigeria.Kola nuts, known as "oji Igbo" in the Igbo language, hold great cultural and social significance among the Igbo people. They are considered sacred and are used in various ceremonies, rituals, and social gatherings. The kola nut is often used as a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and goodwill.In Igbo culture, the breaking and sharing of kola nuts is an important ritual that is performed during gatherings, meetings, and ceremonies. 

The host or the most respected person present breaks the kola nut, saying prayers and making wishes for the well-being of the guests. The kola nut is then shared among the participants, symbolizing unity and togetherness.The Igbo people have different species of kola nuts, but the most common ones  is the cola acuminata (Oji Igbo), cola nitida, called Kworo by lgbo's also nicknamed koro by the Hausa's Fulani's, Consumed in large quantities, by them, also cultivated by Yoruba's in large commercial scales. The third one is the bitter kola (Garcinia kola). Bitter kola is highly valued for its medicinal properties and is often used in traditional medicine for various purposes. It is also believed to have spiritual significance and is sometimes used in religious rituals.

              [Oji Igbo]  Igbo Kola-nut 

The Igbo people cherish the kola nut for several reasons. Firstly, it is seen as a symbol of hospitality and is used to welcome guests and visitors. Secondly, it is believed to have medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments. Additionally, the kola nut is associated with spiritual and cultural practices, making it an important part of Igbo traditions and ceremonies.In Igbo native land, the kola nut is not only valued for its cultural significance but also for its economic importance. It is often traded and used as a form of currency in traditional Igbo society. The kola nut trade has historically played a significant role in the economic activities of the Igbo people.Overall, the history of the Igbo kola nut is deeply intertwined with the cultural, social, and economic fabric of the Igbo people. It continues to hold a special place in Igbo traditions, ceremonies, and daily life, symbolizing hospitality, unity, and cultural identity.

[Akilu] Garcinia Cola

There is a time, in a small village in Igbo land, there lived a young man named Eri whose lgbo oral tradition traced his Ancestors to Israel, in the words of 'Idigo', (2001:24) he said...

'Idigo', "kwuru na akuku obula gbasara mmalite Oji n'ala Igbo bu 'Eri mutara Igbo Nile ka a ga-ju. 'Eri dika a maara si n'agburu Gad (otu n'imeTheu iri na abou jekob mutaru) n'ala Izrel (Gen. 46: 16-17). ,...

Eri was known for his adventurous spirit, huntings and his love for exploring the forests surrounding his village. One day, while wandering deep into the forest, Eri stumbled upon a peculiar tree with large, round fruits hanging from its branches. Curiosity got the better of him, and he decided to investigate further.As Eri approached the tree, he noticed a strong, enticing aroma emanating from the fruits. He had never seen anything like them before. They were brown in color and had a hard shell. Eri's stomach growled at the sight, and he couldn't resist the temptation to taste one of the fruits.With great excitement, Eri plucked a fruit from the tree and examined it closely. He noticed an opening at one end and decided to crack it open. Inside, he found a white, chewy substance that looked delicious. took a bite and was instantly captivated by the rich, nutty flavor. It was unlike anything he had ever tasted before.Eri quickly realized that he had gathered more energy and strenght after eatig the fruit, also he was alert during this period, cos his hunting journey in the forest took him some days before he returned home. He discovered the Kola-nut, also known as Oji Igbo. 

The Kola-nut held great significance in Igbo culture, as it was considered a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and celebration. It was often used in traditional ceremonies and gatherings.Overwhelmed with joy, Eri couldn't help but celebrate his newfound discovery. He gathered more Kola-nuts from the tree and rushed back to his village, eager to share his amazing find with his family and friends.As Eri arrived in the village, he was greeted with excitement and curiosity. The villagers had never seen Kola-nuts before, and they were intrigued by Eri's story. Eri explained the taste and significance of the Kola-nut, and soon everyone wanted to try it.From that day forward, the Kola-nut became a cherished part of the village's culture. It was used in various ceremonies, such as weddings, births, and important gatherings. Eri's discovery brought the community closer together, as they shared the joy and celebration that came with the Kola-nut.Eri's encounter with the Kola-nut not only satisfied his hunger but also enriched the lives of the people in his village. The Kola-nut became a symbol of unity, friendship, and tradition, reminding everyone of the importance of embracing new experiences and celebrating the simple pleasures in life.

The 'Planting', Cultivation Of Kola Nut.

The Igbo people have a long history of planting and cultivating kola nuts for domestic consumption and various uses. The cultivation of kola nuts in Igbo land can be traced back to ancient times and has been an integral part of their culture and traditions. Here is a brief overview of how the Igbo people started planting and cultivating kola nuts:

1.Historical Origins: The exact origin of kola nut cultivation among the Igbo people is not well-documented, but it is believed to have been introduced to the region by early settlers or traders. Kola nuts are native to West Africa and have been cultivated in the region for centuries.

2.Cultural Significance: Kola nuts hold great cultural and social significance among the Igbo people. They are often used in traditional ceremonies, rituals, and social gatherings. Kola nuts are considered a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and respect. Offering kola nuts to guests is a common practice in Igbo culture.

3.Suitable Climate and Soil: The Igbo land, located in southeastern Nigeria, has a favorable climate and soil conditions for growing kola nuts. The region has a tropical rainforest climate with abundant rainfall and moderate temperatures, which are ideal for kola nut cultivation.

4.Planting and Cultivation Techniques: Kola nut trees are typically grown from seeds. The seeds are planted in well-prepared soil during the rainy season. The trees require a shaded environment, so they are often planted alongside taller trees or in areas with partial shade. Regular watering and weeding are necessary to ensure proper growth.

5.Harvesting and Processing: Kola nut trees take several years to mature and start producing fruits. The kola nuts grow in clusters on the tree trunk or branches. Once the nuts are ripe, they fall dawn, and can be picked or are harvested by hand. The outer shell is removed, and  the inner seed for consumption or further processing.

6.Domestic Consumption and Uses: Kola nuts are consumed in various ways by the Igbo people. They are often chewed as a stimulant, as they contain caffeine and other natural compounds that provide a mild energy boost. Kola nuts are also used in traditional medicine, as they are believed to have medicinal properties. Additionally, kola nuts are used in the preparation of traditional dishes, drinks, and as a flavoring agent.Overall, the cultivation of kola nuts among the Igbo people has deep cultural roots and continues to be an important part of their traditions and daily life.

         Kola-Nut And The Yoruba's People

Photo: [Dedemba Afonne]

The cultivation of the Kola-nut and its significance among the Yoruba people in Nigeria is deeply rooted in their cultural and social practices. The Kola-nut, scientifically known as Cola Nitida, is a caffeine-rich nut that grows on the kola tree, native to West Africa.The Yoruba people have been cultivating Kola-nuts for centuries, and it holds great importance in their traditional ceremonies, rituals, and social gatherings. 

The nut is considered a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and goodwill among the Yoruba community.Kola-nuts are typically offered as a gesture of welcomfore and respect to guests and visitors. It is customary  the host to break the nut into pieces and distribute them among the guests, who then chew on the nut as a sign of acceptance and appreciation. This ritual is known as "kola nut breaking" and is often accompanied by prayers and blessings.Apart from its cultural significance, the Kola-nut also has medicinal properties and is believed to have stimulant and aphrodisiac effects. It contains caffeine, theobromine, and other compounds that can increase alertness and reduce fatigue. In traditional Yoruba medicine, the nut is used to treat various ailments such as headaches, stomachaches, and as a natural remedy for depression.In terms of cultivation, the Kola-nut tree requires a tropical climate with well-drained soil. It thrives in the rainforests of Nigeria, particularly in the southwestern region where the Yoruba people predominantly reside. 

[Oji Kworo] Cola Nitida

The trees can grow up to 30-75 meters in height and produce clusters of greenish and brown fruits, each containing several Kola-nuts.The Yoruba people have developed traditional farming techniques to cultivate Kola-nut trees. They carefully select suitable locations, prepare the soil, and plant the seeds or seedlings. The trees require regular watering, pruning, and protection from pests and diseases. It takes several years for the trees to mature and start producing nuts, and they continue to bear fruit for several decades.In recent times, the cultivation of Kola-nuts among the Yoruba people has faced challenges due to deforestation, climate change, and the introduction of alternative beverages. However, efforts are being made to promote sustainable cultivation practices and preserve the cultural significance of the Kola-nut in Yoruba soThety.

Kola-Nut Consumptions And The Hausa's Fulani's People:

Photo: [Dedemba Afonne]

The Hausa-Fulani people, who are predominantly found in Northern Nigeria, have a long-standing tradition of consuming kola nuts. Kola nuts are the seeds of the kola tree, which is native to West Africa. Kola nuts hold great cultural and social significance among the Hausa-Fulani people. They are often used in various social and religious ceremonies, including, sharing to friends. Kola nuts are considered a symbol of hospitality and are commonly offered to guests as a sign of respect and friendship.In addition to their cultural significance, kola nuts are also known for their stimulating properties. They contain caffeine and other natural stimulants, which provide a boost of energy and help to combat fatigue. 

Photo: [Dedemba Afonne]

This makes them a popular choice for individuals who engage in physically demanding activities, such as farmers and herders, which are common occupations among the Hausa-Fulani people.Kola nuts are typically chewed or brewed into a tea-like beverage. Chewing kola nuts is believed to have a refreshing and invigorating effect, while the brewed beverage is often consumed for its medicinal properties. It is believed to aid digestion, relieve headaches, and improve mental alertness.Overall, kola nut consumption is deeply ingrained in the cultural and social fabric of the Hausa-Fulani people. It serves as a symbol of hospitality, a source of energy, and a traditional remedy for various ailments.

Unu makwara na emume, omenala o bula lgbo ji Oji eme, o buru na Oji aputa bee, imara na emume ahu ebido beyi. Mara Kwa na onwere agburu n'di uzo na eji Oji a nabata n'di enyi.