Beading

Shops D6 - D14

Beads have played a vital role within Nigerian culture for centuries, and continue to be a significant part of the artistic and cultural heritage. They have been used in a variety of ways in Nigerian society e.g. as a part of the traditional dress, used to perform ceremonies or for religious rituals. Ceramic and recycled glass beads were used by Yorubas for trade as an early means of currency. The Hausas are especially known for controlling the bead industry as they travel far and wide to locate beads in villages, modify and customize these beads, and then sell them to local and foreign merchants (Adiji, 2018).

These days beads continue to play an important role in contemporary Nigerian art and fashion. Many Nigerian artists and designers incorporate beads into their work, using them to create intricate patterns and designs. Ibrahim and Suleiman are a father son duo, hailing from Kano, the northern region of Nigeria. Their shop carries a plethora of beaded and leather accessories. As Suleiman works on customizing our purchases, his father tells us how women from other countries such as Lebanon and India source beaded accessories from Nigeria due to their intricate and complex designs. He moved his business down to Lagos because unlike his small village in Kana, there was a higher chance of meeting with these tourists in a larger city.

Ibrahim and Suleiman’s shop is located in shop D12