Impact of Globalization on Indigenous Values and the Potential for Dialogue that Respect individual Autonomy and Collective Cultural Heritage in Nigeria
International Journal of Social Work and Development Studies, Vol. 1, No. 1, 2025
Published: 2025/10/21
DOI: https://doi.org/10.67007/ijsds-2025-5600076
Abstract
ABSTRACT The study examined the impact of globalization on indigenous values and the potential for dialogue that respects individual autonomy and collective cultural heritage in Nigeria. The impact of globalization on Nigeria's cultural heritage is complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, globalization has enabled the dissemination of Nigerian cultural expressions and customs to international arenas. Two research questions were formulated in the study. The study is a qualitative and quantitative survey using an ex-post-facto design. The sample used for this study was 150 participants in the study area. A simple random sampling technique was used in the study. A self-developed instrument titled “Impact of Globalization on Indigenous Values and Cultural Heritage Questionnaire - IGIVCHQ” and interviews were used as the instrument to collect data from participants. The researcher administered a total of 150 questionnaires to randomly selected participants and 15 participants were interviewed. Simple percentages, Mean scores, standard deviation, and Thematic statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that globalization has both positive and negative impacts on indigenous values and cultural heritage in Nigeria. In conclusion, globalization is rapidly shaping the cultural practices of the Nigerian people. Those who fail to adapt quickly are being left behind, and it appears that everyone is in a hurry to keep up. The cultural practices of developed economies have largely supplanted local culture, with many Nigerians preferring the cultural norms of these countries. This era has brought about a dual impact. While it has opened doors for international recognition and celebration of Nigerian culture, it has also posed substantial threats to the preservation of traditional values and practices. There is the crave for a more global than indigenous cultural identity that ought to be promoted.