Nigeria has traditionally been a country dominated by traditional burial practices. For centuries, the average Nigerian has always opted for a traditional burial, in which the deceased is buried in the earth. This practice is deeply rooted in the country’s culture, with religious and cultural beliefs playing an important role in the choice. However, in recent years, a growing phenomenon has emerged: cremation. This practice, considered unconventional by many until recently, is widely accepted and now rivals traditional burials in popularity.
A new era: the rise of cremation
The idea of burning the dead to reduce, reuse and recycle the body and grave is not a new practice. In fact, cremation of the dead dates back more than 2,000 years in ancient China, while in India, the holy city of Varanasi has been practicing cremation rituals for centuries. Globally, this practice was once confined to specific areas of the world, usually in areas where land availability was limited. However, with global population growth and environmental concerns, there is a need to rethink age-old practices and find eco-friendly alternatives. Cremation, considered environmentally friendly, is now one of the preferred options and is increasingly accepted in some parts of Nigeria.
Demographic change and changing habits
The growing popularity of cremation in Nigeria, particularly among the youth, can be attributed to a change in societal demographics and evolving values. Generational differences and urbanization have widened a gap between traditional values and personal preferences. This gap often leads younger generations to prioritize convenience, profitability and environmental sensitivity over traditional customs. Increased exposure to Western cultures has also contributed to the rise in cremation, with many Nigerians seeing it as a more hygienic and modern option.
Ecological alternative
Proponents of cremation are quick to point out its advantage over traditional burial practices from an environmental perspective. Incineration significantly reduces space requirements, saving land and preserving natural habitats. Reducing carbon emissions from transportation for burials and long-term maintenance is becoming a thing of the past. Additionally, the physical act of cremating the body has no negative impact on the environment by reducing the carbon footprint typically associated with decomposition.
Availability and accessibility
In the case of Nigeria, the absence of crematoria and legal frameworks has so far hampered the rapid adoption of cremation practices. However, awareness of the need for practical and environmentally sustainable options among young people has pushed government and private service providers to explore the use of crematoria. Major cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt now have local crematoria that specifically meet the growing demand and provide a cost-effective method of disposing of remains.
Conclusion
The rise of cremation as an alternative to burial in Nigeria heralds a significant shift from traditional practices and a shift toward a more modern perspective on death. As public awareness and perception of cream
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