Iria marriage is a festival celebrated by the Ijaw ethnic group in Rivers State, Nigeria. [1] It is a significant cultural event that marks the transition of a girl into womanhood within the Ijaw community. The festival is primarily observed in the Ibani Kingdom, located in the Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State. [2]
The Iria marriage ceremony is considered a rite of passage for young girls as they reach puberty and begin to mature physically. Prior to this stage, a girl child runs naked around the neighborhood, but once she reaches the age of puberty, her parents acquire a wrapper for her. The presentation of this wrapper to the girl marks a special day and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. [3] [4]
The festival consists of three stages, each corresponding to different age groups: [5]
Iria marriage is a festival celebrated by the Ijaw ethnic group in Rivers State, Nigeria. [1] It is a significant cultural event that marks the transition of a girl into womanhood within the Ijaw community. The festival is primarily observed in the Ibani Kingdom, located in the Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State. [2]
The Iria marriage ceremony is considered a rite of passage for young girls as they reach puberty and begin to mature physically. Prior to this stage, a girl child runs naked around the neighborhood, but once she reaches the age of puberty, her parents acquire a wrapper for her. The presentation of this wrapper to the girl marks a special day and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. [3] [4]
The festival consists of three stages, each corresponding to different age groups: [5]