First Term Lesson Note for Week Five

Class : Primary Three

Subject : Social Studies

Topic : Marriage Practices in Nigeria

Duration : 40 Minutes

Period : Single Period

Learning Objectives :

I. Identify the forms of marriage practices in Nigeria.

II. Explains each form of marriage practices

III. Mentions some features and items used in marriage

IV. State differences between the various forms of Marriages.

Instructional Material : Chart showing the marriage practices in Nigeria.

Content :

Definition of marriage:

A socially or legally recognized union between individuals that establishes rights and obligations between them.

Importance of marriage in Nigerian society:

Marriage is a key social institution that promotes family formation, social stability, and cultural continuity.

Types of Marriage in Nigeria

Traditional Marriage: Conducted according to the customs and traditions of various ethnic groups.

Islamic Marriage: Conducted under Islamic law, common among Muslim communities.

Christian Marriage: Conducted in churches according to Christian rites.

Traditional or Customary Marriage: Recognized by Nigerian law, based on the customs of the people.

Court or Civil Marriage: Legal marriage conducted at a registry or court. The government official, called a registrar conduct the marriage taking vows and using a ring and issuing certificate to the couple.

Traditional Marriage Practices

• Introduction Ceremony (Knocking on the door): Formal visit by the groom’s family to the bride’s family to seek consent.
• Bride Price (Dowry): Payment made by the groom’s family to the bride’s family as a symbol of appreciation and commitment.
• Engagement Ceremony: Formal announcement and celebration of the couple’s intention to marry.
• Traditional Wedding: Includes cultural rites, dances, and rituals specific to the ethnic group.
• Role of Elders and Families: Elders officiate and bless the marriage; families play significant roles in negotiations and ceremonies.

Islamic Marriage Practices

• Proposal and Consent: Mutual agreement and consent are essential.
• Marriage Contract (Nikah): Signed by the bride and groom in the presence of witnesses.
• Mahr (Dowry): Specified amount or gift given to the bride.
• Walima: Marriage feast held after the wedding.

Christian Marriage Practices

• Church Service: Wedding conducted in a church with prayers, hymns, and vows.
• Exchange of Rings: Symbolizes commitment.
• Signing of Marriage Register: Legal documentation of the marriage.
• Reception: Celebration with family and friends.
• Legal Framework

• Marriage Act and Matrimonial Causes Act regulate marriages in Nigeria.
• Customary and Islamic marriages have legal recognition if properly conducted.
• Registration of marriage is important for legal protection.

Cultural Diversity in Marriage

• Nigeria’s ethnic groups have diverse marriage customs (e.g., Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Efik).
• Variations in bride price, ceremonies, and rituals.
• Polygamy is practiced in some communities, especially under customary and Islamic law.

Conclusion/ Wrap up :

The teacher summarizes the lesson for a better understanding. He/she then marks the learners notebooks and make corrections where necessary.

Assignment :

List ten items used in contracting marriage.