Traditional Nigerian attires and cultural signifiers in selected Nollywood films

Abstract

Nigeria's thriving film industry, Nollywood, has long been praised for its vivid narrative and diverse cultural representations. Nollywood has grown to become a potent tool for introducing both local and foreign viewers to the country's rich cultural heritage. Traditional Nigerian costumes are potent cultural signifiers and symbols of national identity and they are central to the visual narratives of many Nollywood films. Thus, these costumes are powerful symbols of social standing, spirituality, and cultural identity. In this study, the several functions of traditional Nigerian clothing in Nollywood films are discussed, along with their historical background, artistic development, and socio-cultural ramifications. Through the content analysis and descriptive approaches of the qualitative research methodology, the study interrogates the costumes used in two Nollywood films titled The Figurine and The Milkmaid; and explores how traditional dresses function as visual languages in Nigerian films; noting that they express cultural heritage, social status, and personal identity. The study recommends a knowledgeable portrayal of Nigerian dress cultures through effective costuming in Nollywood films.