History was once removed from the Nigerian school curriculum, and I have always wondered why. When I was growing up in the early 80ties, we had a history in school, but the focus was more on English history. even in literature, it was more of Shakespeare. As I grew older, especially after venturing to Europe, I realised how important history is. Many say,
In this article, we will warm up our minds for the incredible journey into the Benin Empire, its rich mythology, and its profound connection to the global world. If you think you know history, think again, because now the lion can write!
“Until the lion tells the story, the hunter will always be the hero”.
Benin Empire has its own origin Myth
Like many origin stories, the Benin Empire has a tale rooted in divine intervention. Everyone wants to believe a supreme being sent an exceptional child to establish their land, right? Well, Benin—located in present-day Edo State, Nigeria—has its own legend. And no, don’t confuse Benin City with the country of Benin—two completely different places. On one of my visits back to Benin, I had the chance to visit a gallery. There, I met with the manager, a passionate historian, who shared the founding legend of the Benin Empire. What he told me was extraordinary.
Watch the YouTube video here.
By the way, during my research, I stumbled across the British Museum’s archive of images of the looted Benin artefacts. This crown fascinated me.
Original available? – YES.
Made by: Ivory beaders | Material: coral (Ivie) cotton, agate, glass |18th Century | Made in Benin Kingdom | Looted by the English Empire, via Captain Ernest Percy Stuart Roupell in 1897 Invasion on Benin by England | In possession of / Occupied by The British Museum /Displayed at The British Museum.
A bird who advised Idu
When I learned that mythology suggests that a bird served as a divine adviser to Idu, I wondered which bird it was. Was it an African Paradise Flycatcher, an African Grey Hornbill, or perhaps an African Fish Eagle? I can’t say for sure which bird it was, but legend claims that a bird guided Idu, the last-born child of God, in his choice of destiny. While the other sons chose wealth, power, and weapons (I know who chose weapons, the Maxim gun – England of course), the bird urged Idu to choose something unexpected—a simple shell. This decision changed everything, resulting in the founding of the Benin Empire.
Some historians argue that the Benin people may have migrated from Egypt, but the legend tells a different tale. The supreme being, Osa No Obua No Go Dua—meaning ‘God Almighty’—chose his youngest son, Idu. Guided by a divine bird, Idu selected the humble shell over material riches. He descended from the sky on a rope-like chain and poured the sand from the shell into the water below, forming the land we now know as Benin.
Removal of History in Nigeria’s educational curriculum
History was removed from Nigeria’s education curriculum in the 2009/2010 academic session due to declining student interest, limited career opportunities for history graduates, and a shortage of qualified teachers. This decision faced widespread criticism as it undermined national identity and historical consciousness among Nigerian youth. In response to public outcry, the National Council on Education approved the reintroduction of history as a standalone subject during its 61st ministerial session in September 2016. By 2018, the then-Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, directed the Nigeria Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) to separate history from the social studies curriculum, marking a significant step toward its revival.
The formal reintroduction was flagged off by the Minister of State for Education, Goodluck Opiah, in Abuja. To support this initiative, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) began training 3,700 teachers, with 100 drawn from each state and the Federal Capital Territory. This effort aimed to enhance teachers’ mastery of history and equip them with modern teaching techniques and methodologies. The reintroduction seeks to address gaps in national identity, foster critical thinking, and support nation-building by providing students with a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s past.
The second dynasty – 1200 AD
The second dynasty of the Benin Empire began around 1200 A.D., marking a new era of power and influence. Fast forward a few centuries and the English monarchy discovered that the land of Igodomigodo—today’s Edo State—held the very resources they needed to fuel the Industrial Revolution.
I can’t wait to dig deeper into this story! A special thank you to Mr. Chris for sharing such valuable insights. Join me on this exciting exploration of my roots through Untold Stories, Legends, History, and Research. And hey, I love the facts just as much as you do.
This article is the foundation for future articles as we explore the Bnein empire, its role during the Industrial Revolution and the modern Benin people. Don’t miss this compelling exploration of untold stories and African heritage. Subscribe to our Boldwithjo Newsletter now for more!
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