UNESCO has officially added the colourful Eid Durbar festivities in northern Nigeria to its intangible cultural heritage list. This centuries-old celebration, which dates back to the 15th century, features a grand parade of horse riders, musicians, and religious leaders through the streets of Kano, Nigeria’s largest city in the predominantly Muslim north.
The event, which takes place twice a year during the Islamic holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, is one of the most important celebrations in northern Nigeria. During the procession, the emir of Kano, accompanied by 10,000 horse riders, leads a march through the streets, paying tribute to the traditions of the region and the Islamic faith. The celebrations are known for their vibrancy, with the emir’s procession drawing large crowds of locals, as well as people from different ethnic groups including the Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, and Tuareg.
The Durbar festivities, which have expanded to other cities in northern Nigeria, are a symbol of pride and cultural unity. Hajo Sani, Nigeria’s representative at UNESCO, described the festival as a “powerful socio-cultural event” that brings together diverse ethnic groups, promoting integration within the community.
The festival is also an important part of the local economy, with many jobs and opportunities created in the process. However, tensions have occasionally marred the celebrations, such as when the Durbar was cancelled in June due to security concerns arising from a dispute between traditional chiefs.
Kano, home to one of the most senior Islamic authorities in Nigeria, is recognised as the birthplace of the Durbar tradition. The festival joins other Nigerian landmarks, such as the Sukur cultural landscape and Osun-Osogbo sacred grove, on UNESCO’s heritage list, further solidifying Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
The inclusion of the Eid Durbar celebrations on UNESCO’s list is a significant recognition of the country’s traditions and its commitment to preserving its cultural identity for future generations.
