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105 

THE IMPACT OF MUSIC ON CULTURAL PRESERVATION IN 

THE DIGITAL ERA OF NIGERIA 
 

Adetunji Taiwo Adesoji 

A Ph.D. Student Department of Creative Arts (Music Unit) Faculty of Arts University 

of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria 

+2348121911128 

yemi_taiwo2003@yahoo.co.uk 

 

Abstract 

Music has been a highly influential tool in history; it has promoted cultures, lifestyles, 

and other aspects of life in different ways across different centuries. However, society 

operates in a globalisation era, which is now driven by modern digital technologies. As 

such, the study examines the contribution of music to the preservation of traditional 

practices and heritage in the digital era in Nigeria, aiming to accomplish specific 

objectives that include examining the role of music in preserving and promoting the 

diverse traditional values, culture, and beliefs in Nigeria, exploring how the digital era 

has impacted traditional practises in Nigeria regarding cultural preservation, and 

identifying challenges faced by traditional cultural practises in the digital era. The study 

conducted a semi-systematic review of academic literature about music, culture, and 

digitization. The findings reveal that music has had a significant impact on promoting 

Nigerian culture by mirroring, transmitting, and shaping Nigeria’s cultural identity, 

educating people about cultural practices in Nigeria, and promoting cultural values, among 

others. Additionally, digital media has had a positive impact on Nigeria's traditional 

practices by giving them exposure, enhancing cultural communication, and creating 

longevity through digital storage. However, the digital era has posed a significant threat 

to Nigeria’s cultural traditional practices, causing a decline in traditional practices, 

Westernizing the indigenous culture, diminishing traditional values, and causing a 

preference for foreign content over local content. 

 

1.0 Introduction 

The concept of culture has existed since the early days of civilisation, playing a vital role 

in maintaining a society's identity, legacy, and traditions. Cultural preservation serves as 

a means of safeguarding the ever-evolving ethics, convictions, expertise, and customs 

that remain unchanged to the present day (Atlan, 2018). However, increasingly 

unanticipated disasters caused by nature, external variables, socioeconomic 

circumstances, and acts of humanity have all placed a lot of these cultures at risk 

(Goodarzparvari & Camejo, 2018). As a result, the preservation of either tradition or 

natural values becomes essential, as it allows for interactions between the world, 

individuals, and activities in the community (Prompayuk & Chairattanuaon, 2016). 

Moreover, due to its role in promoting past lifestyles that are advantageous to modern 

civilisations, cultural conservation is extremely important, and in some ways, the past 

serves as the foundation for the present and the way forward (Onyima, 2016).  



 

 
  

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Nigeria, a country with a diversified population of ethnic nations, possesses a wealth of 

cultural traditions, which include things like languages, marriage customs, clothing, 

greetings, observable historical statues, natural landmarks, and scenic beauty (Nancy, 

2013). Unfortunately, the indigenous languages of Nigeria are at risk of extinction, with 

many classified as endangered (Onyima, 2016). In light of this, the preservation of 

Nigeria's cultural heritage takes on paramount importance, as it makes the advancement 

of the nation possible in terms of togetherness, harmony, and nationalism, as well as 

creating peaceful relationships among Nigerians (Onyima, 2016). 

 

Ekwelem et al. (2011) stated that digitization offers increased accessibility to various 

collections, thereby lessening the deterioration and damage of delicate artefacts and 

resources. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges associated with digital 

preservation, particularly in the period of fake content and misinformation, which may 

jeopardise the authenticity of digitised history (Nwabueze, 2017), and today in Nigeria, 

digital preservation has grown to be a major issue for educational institutions, posing 

enormous difficulties for archives and libraries in maintaining electronic records and 

information resources (Masenya & Ngulube, 2019). Moreover, digital advancements have 

had a profound impact on traditional cultural practices in Nigeria, challenging traditional 

forms of entertainment, including newspapers, radio stations, and television programs, 

and altering the dynamics of media consumption in the country (Igyuve & Obagwu, 2020). 

Kabir and Jeromes (2022) strengthened this by stating that one of the most intriguing 

trends defining the digital era and impacting the traditional, social, and economic lives of 

today's society is the rapid growth of the online world.  

 

Furthermore, within the Nigerian context, music plays a significant role in daily life, 

serving several purposes (Nnamani, 2019). Traditional Nigerian music is often performed 

during weddings, birthday parties, or funerals, and according to Jayeola (2015), people 

use music extensively to connect with others, move, convey their feelings and 

perspectives, engage crowds, and inspire unity. Although entertainment is music's main 

purpose, it also functions socially, culturally, and spiritually (Yussuf & Olubomehin, 2018). 

They went further to explain that it is impossible to overstate how important the popular 

music of the Yorubas is to maintaining and advancing their traditional values, as these 

values have become well-known through the numerous types of their music and have also 

been maintained through music amid a hostile cultural monarchy. According to Yussuf and 

Olubomehin (2018), despite the introduction of international songs, traditional music 

remains resilient in Nigerian culture. Also, musicians honour earlier cultural traditions by 

performing songs as a type of musical performance and building on musical tradition, the 

composition of music for contemporary cultural problems promotes music and a 

sustainable economy (Petocz et al., 2014). This implies that since music is present in so 

many civilizations, it is crucial to the preservation of cultural history. 

 

According to Ugbam et al. (2014), the impact of modernization, particularly through the 

rise of digital platforms, has had a mixed impact on Nigerian culture. The authors affirm 

that this influence can be likened to a sword with two edges, as it is challenging to 

attribute the negative consequences solely to the choices made by Nigerians. They 



 

 
  

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argued that the adverse effects may have been a result of copying unfavourable aspects 

of other traditions. Aboyade and Adeyemo's (2019) research further supports the idea 

that the dissemination of specialised information has been negatively affected by 

Western civilization and significantly influenced by the digital era. The authors provided 

an example of how traditional clothing, which once provided a means of livelihood for 

those who made it, is now being substituted by European clothing such as blazers, shirts, 

ties, and lace. Consequently, communities involved in manufacturing traditional textiles 

and apparel are experiencing reduced economic gains. 

 

To resolve these challenges and promote Nigerian traditions, Adesina (2012) proposed 

leveraging the trend of globalisation. Adesina suggested utilising the power of the 

internet to create a digital space where adages and basic information about various 

Nigerian cultures are available for young people to explore. Such a strategy not only 

promotes cultural identity and pride but also aids in preserving and promoting traditional 

heritage amid modernization. Maintaining a society's identity and values requires the 

preservation of its cultural heritage above all else. The significance of music in preserving 

knowledge, customs, and values over generations is still largely unexplored, even though 

numerous aspects of cultural presentation have been thoroughly investigated. This study 

seeks to bridge this gap by investigating the impact of music on cultural preservation in 

the digital era of Nigeria. 

 

1.1 Research Question 

The primary research question guiding this study is: 

How does music contribute to cultural preservation in Nigeria's digital era? 

1.2 Research Objectives 

To address the research question effectively, this study aims to achieve the following 

objectives: 

1. To examine the role of music in preserving and promoting cultural values, 

traditions, and beliefs in Nigeria. 

2. To explore how the digital era has impacted traditional practices in Nigeria, 

particularly concerning music's role in cultural preservation. 

3. To identify challenges faced by traditional cultural practices in the digital era. 

 

2.0 Literature Review 

2.1 Music and Cultural Preservation 

Music has long been recognised as a powerful tool for the preservation of culture. 

Conventional African melodies and narratives, as discussed by Uzochukwu and Ekwugha 

(2015), impart knowledge and recount the brave actions of African leaders while also 

containing a deep understanding of cultural heritage through specific tales, and this 

serves as a powerful motivator for growth. The authors explained further that 

traditional media, including music, have been utilised to spread information, convey 

cultural values, and perpetuate cultural practices. Ahmedovich (2022) further 

emphasises that music has played a significant role in shaping shared national cultures 

over thousands of years. Also, in contemporary Europe, popular music plays diverse roles 

in shaping cultural memory, making it particularly significant for policies regarding 



 

 
  

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culture (Cohen, 2012), and due to its widespread acceptance, music becomes an effective 

means of promoting cultural traditions and heritage, making it a valuable tool for 

preserving the past.  

 

In Nigeria, traditional music holds exceptional importance for national growth and 

cultural identity (Jayeola, 2015). The author further noted that the loss of native musical 

traditions could have devastating consequences, affecting the nation's well-being and 

sense of cultural identity. Additionally, traditional music contributes to economic and 

social prosperity through cultural displays, tourism, and inter-ethnic interactions, and 

neglecting traditional music poses a significant risk to Nigeria's economy and cultural 

integrity (Jayeola, 2015). 

 

In addition, learning music from different cultures enhances comprehension and 

appreciation of those cultures (Ilari et al., 2013). For instance, Fadipe and Salawu (2022) 

emphasise the importance of unique musical styles in Yoruba culture, which have a 

profound impact on cultural memory and preservation and act as barriers against the 

influence of Western technology and media, particularly for the younger generation. 

Similarly, Yekini-Ajenifuja and Okunade (2013) emphasised that music, especially vocal 

music, is the most straightforward method of preserving records in traditional 

civilization, and it is essential to encourage educational institutions, artists, and other 

art practitioners to use indigenous languages in their works as it is a way to maintain the 

healthy norms and values in contemporary Nigerian culture, and this initiative would have 

helped developed countries improve technologically. It is crucial to note that while music 

can help develop an appreciation for and preserve different cultures, it should also be 

used with caution and with an appreciation for the unique characteristics of each culture. 

 

2.2 Empirical review 

Several empirical studies have explored the role of music in preserving cultural identity 

and heritage as highlighted below: 

Huynh (2023) conducted a qualitative study, focusing on how the Kora, a musical 

instrument, has been useful in maintaining identity and heritage. The study utilised online 

interviews with the help of programs like Zoom and Skype. The interview covered a wide 

range of topics, including Kora's history, its importance to culture, and its role in 

celebrations and other festivities. Results from the study disclosed how important Kora 

is in preserving and advancing traditional practices and the cultural heritage of people. 

Additionally, results show that beyond being a musical instrument, the kora serves as a 

means of transmitting cultural information. The study's conclusion emphasised the 

importance of traditional music in sustaining and enriching traditions and cultures. 

 

Yusuf and Olubomehin (2012) examined the impact of traditional popular music on the 

Yoruba people's spread and protection of cultural values. The study highlighted how 

traditional music fosters a sense of community and contributes to positive interpersonal 

relationships. Furthermore, it pointed out the educational and inspirational qualities that 

are present in traditional songs. The research concluded that traditional popular music 



 

 
  

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serves as a storehouse and a resource for conserving Yoruba heritage, contributing 

significantly to cultural preservation. 

 

Adedeji (2010) focused on Yoruba culture and its influence on the development of modern 

popular music in Nigeria. This research gathered information from sources that were 

both primary and secondary, with primary data collected from fieldwork on Nigerian 

popular music in Lagos between 2008 and 2009 and printed materials like books and 

journals as well as electronic ones like newspapers and magazines serving as secondary 

sources. The study utilised a qualitative approach, including interviews with musicians. 

The findings indicated the success of preserving cultural heritage through music and 

revealed how Yoruba culture has served as a global ambassador for Nigerian music. The 

study concluded that in a nation like Nigeria, where ethnic conflicts have persisted for 

a long time, popular music serves as a platform for cultural unification, fostering a sense 

of shared identity and belonging. 

 

These findings emphasise the importance of music as a powerful tool for preserving 

Nigeria's cultural heritage, and whether through traditional instruments like Kora or 

traditional public songs, music plays a vital role in transmitting cultural values and 

promoting cultural unification. 

 

2. 3 Gap in Literature 

The study emphasised the relationship between music and cultural preservation. 

However, following the review of existing literature, there is a lack of comprehensive 

studies that specifically examine the influence of music on cultural preservation in the 

digital era in Nigeria. Therefore, further research that investigates the impact of music 

on cultural preservation in Nigeria's digital era needs to be conducted. In addition, some 

relevant data was not publicly accessible, which limited the researcher's ability to use 

certain valuable data sources. Lastly, earlier studies concentrated on short-term effects 

rather than investigating the long-term impact of music on cultural preservation in 

Nigeria's digital era. 

 

2.4 Theoretical Explanation 

The theoretical framework chosen for this study is identity theory, which provides a 

comprehensive perspective to understand the relationship between music and cultural 

preservation. Identity theory focuses on how different identities are developed and 

regulated through communication (Stets & Serpe, 2013). In today's digital age, people 

not only establish their cultural identities through digital platforms but also develop 

them through interactions with others, contributing to the growth of modernization and 

intercultural dialogue (Chen & Lin, 2016). This digital era has brought about continuous 

changes and combinations in cultural identities, showcasing the versatility and resilience 

of cultures. Moreover, popular songs have been found to evoke memories that aid in 

creating a sense of location and time and contribute to the formation of cultural identity 

(Hoven, 2015). 

Nwaolikpe (2013) highlights that the dominance of the digital age in Nigeria poses a 

threat to the country's cultural identity, and this aligns with the findings of Kente et 



 

 
  

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al.'s (2023) study on new media and indigenous cultural identities in Nigeria. The 

qualitative study conducted in six of Nigeria's geographic regions found that culture is 

a defining characteristic that distinguishes a group, encompassing elements such as drum 

beats, dancing, food, clothing, and religion. The study revealed that the digital era has 

indeed impacted Nigeria's culture and ethnic identities, reflecting the ongoing changes 

and challenges brought about by digitization. This emphasises the importance of music in 

preserving cultural heritage, especially in the face of digital advancement that may 

influence traditional practices.  

 

3.0 Methodology 

3.1 Search Strategy 

This study is based on a systematic review of the literature on the impact of music on 

cultural preservation in the digital era of Nigeria. This study involves the use and analysis 

of journal articles published on the subject. The search for relevant articles has been 

conducted on Google Scholar using a combination of specific search terms to capture a 

broad range of literature related to the research topic. 

 

The articles are searched using the following search terms: the importance of cultural 

preservation; the impact of the digital era on traditional practises in Nigeria; the 

significance of music in Nigerian culture; the role of music in preserving cultural heritage; 

challenges to traditional cultural practices in the digital era due to the rise of digital 

platforms; the relationship between music and cultural preservation. Also, to ensure 

comprehensive search results, the search terms are combined using "OR" within each 

group of related terms; for instance, the importance of cultural preservation, the impact 

of the digital era on traditional practises in Nigeria, or the significance of music in 

Nigerian culture. Additionally, to narrow down the search results and ensure relevance, 

different groups of search terms are combined using "AND." For example, the 

importance of cultural preservation, the impact of the digital era on traditional practises 

in Nigeria, and the significance of music in Nigerian culture to manage search results 

efficiently, a systematic approach will be employed. 

 

3.2 Inclusion Criteria 

The search results are filtered based on the inclusion criteria. Only articles published 

within the last 13 years (2010–2023) in reputable and freely available publications are 

considered. Additionally, the articles included are written in English and directly related 

to the impact of music on cultural preservation in Nigeria's digital era. Articles that 

meet these criteria are selected for further analysis and review. 

3.3 Data Extraction 

The selected articles are meticulously examined to extract relevant data. Key 

information, such as the author's name, publication year, research focus, methodology, 

and main findings, is extracted for each article. 

3.4 Data Analysis 

A thematic analysis approach is employed to analyse the extracted data from the 

selected articles, and these findings are organised based on recurring themes to address 

the research objectives coherently.  



 

 
  

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3.5 Ethical Considerations 

As a literature review study, ethical considerations primarily revolve around proper 

citation and acknowledgement of the original authors and their work. All sources used in 

the review are properly cited, giving credit to the original researchers and publication. 

3.6 Organisation of Findings 

The findings from the selected articles are organised into different themes based on 

the recurring patterns identified during the data analysis process. This systematic 

organisation will facilitate a clear presentation of the literature review's conclusions and 

address the research objectives effectively. 

3.7 Management of Retrieved Articles  

The retrieved articles are organised and stored systematically to ensure ease of access 

and retrieval during the review process. A reference management tool is used to maintain 

a well-organised reference list of selected articles, making it easier to cite and refer 

back to the sources. 

 

4.0 Results 

4.1 The Role of Music in Preserving and Promoting Cultural Values, Traditions, 

and Beliefs in Nigeria 

In a semi-systematic review of relevant studies, some authors have identified some 

significant influences that music has on the preservation and promotion of Nigeria’s 

cultural values, traditions, and beliefs.  

Table 1 Data Extraction on the Role of Music in Preserving and Promoting Cultural Values, 

Traditions, and Beliefs in Nigeria 

Authors and Date Role of Music in Preserving and Promoting Cultural 

Values, Traditions, and Beliefs 

Agu (2019) Identity Mirror 

Music has a notable influence in reflecting ethnic and 

cultural distinctiveness, as it is being used to 

celebrate the characteristics, history, and heritage 

of sects of people and groups in Nigeria. By mirroring 

cultural identities, music has been used to bring 

Nigeria’s indigenous values, customs, traditions, and 

lifestyles to the spotlight. 

Transmission of Cultural Identities 

As a result of its ability to orally spread across 

geographic locations, music is influential in its being 

able to communicate and teach Nigeria’s cultural 

identity to other cultures or parts of the world. 

Hence, music carries cultural values to other 

cultures, thereby promoting the Nigerian culture 

among other cultures. 

Shaping Identities 

Different ethnic groups in Nigeria have used music to 

express their identities, relate themselves to their 

origins, and express their values. 



 

 
  

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Nnamani (2019) Education 

Nigerian traditional music plays a significant role in 

preserving the cultural identity, values, and customs 

of the people by educating young people about the 

culture. 

Unity 

Music helps to unite people with the same culture who 

share similar values, beliefs, and traditions. 

Akpakpan and Akpakpan (2018) Integration of People's Lifestyles 

Music plays a role in promoting Nigerian cultural 

heritage by integrating the lifestyle of the people 

into songs and sounds. It is also an avenue for social 

activities. 

Morality 

Music promotes culturally oriented moral behaviours 

and attitudes among people. 

Ojebuyi and Fafowora (2021) Hybridisation 

Music can integrate different cultural values and 

identities to form a new cultural identity. Nigerian 

hip-hop music hybridises Nigerian indigenous culture 

and modern culture to create new cultural identities, 

promoting Nigerian cultures within modern cultures. 

Samuel and Adekola, (2018) Correction 

Music can serve as a tool to correct societal 

decadence, which does not reflect the lifestyle, 

culture, and identity of Nigerian society. Music can 

be used to reprimand society for immoral behaviours 

and attitudes, thereby promoting the cultural 

identity and values of ethnic groups. 

 

4.2 How the Digital Era Has Impacted Traditional Practices in Nigeria 

Digital technologies in the contemporary globalisation era have had an impact in terms of 

enhancing Nigeria’s cultural and traditional practices. The impacts of the digital era on 

traditional practices, as asserted by some authors, have been identified. 

Table 2 Data Extraction on How the Digital Era Has Impacted Traditional Practices in 

Nigeria 

Authors and Date How the Digital Era Has Impacted Traditional 

Practices 

Morgan (2020) Cultural Longevity 

Digital technologies have been used as a tool in the 

contemporary era to promote the transmission of 

ethnic and indigenous cultures and traditions. It helps 

store memories of cultural practices for future 

generations. 

Cultural Communication 



 

 
  

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Digital technologies have enhanced cultural education 

and communication in the contemporary era through 

digital media and applications. For example, animation 

and videos have been used to communicate traditional 

practices in modern times. 

Oryila and Aghadiuno (2021) Exposure and Opportunities 

Digital technologies have helped create exposure to 

indigenous practices and culture, creating 

opportunities for native people through digital 

exposure. 

 

4.3 Challenges Faced by Traditional Cultural Practice in the Digital Era 

Despite the impacts the digital era has had on traditional and cultural practices in 

Nigeria, it has also posed a significant threat to cultural development in the country. The 

challenges that scholars have explored are identified and summarised below: 

Table 3 Data Extraction on the Challenges Faced by Traditional Cultural Practice in the 

Digital Era 

Authors and Date Challenges Faced by Traditional Cultural Practice in 

the Digital Era 

Odiboh et al. (2018) A Decline in Traditional Practices 

The digital era has led to the increasing adoption of 

foreign cultures by the younger generation as a result 

of their exposure to foreign cultures through digital 

media channels. Hence, there is an increasing decline 

in the ability to speak the local or native language and 

a decline in traditional practices. 

Kayode-Adedeji et al. (2018) Westernisation of Indigenous Culture 

Digital media, in the globalisation era, has brought 

some element of Westernisation to the Nigerian 

indigenous cultures, making Nigerian cultures lose 

their richness. 

Degradation of Family Values 

Social media, specifically, has been said to decline 

family values and traditional practices, which are 

peculiar to indigenous-oriented families. 

Asemah et al. (2014) Loss of Regard for Nigeria’s Traditional Values 

Due to their exposure to Western traditions through 

digital media, Nigerians are increasingly relegating 

their ethnic and indigenous traditional practices. 

Ortserga (2013) Preference for Foreign Content 

The Nigerian cultural climate has witnessed a shift in 

many Nigerians' preference for foreign or Western 

content to traditional or domestic content in the 

digital era. There has been a decline in media content 

that reflects Nigerian cultural heritage.  



 

 
  

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5.0 Discussion 

In the digital era, traditional practices and cultural identities in Nigeria have 

encountered both challenges and opportunities. The findings highlight the significance 

of music in reflecting and transmitting cultural identities, shaping social cohesion, 

promoting education, and preserving morality. Additionally, the study examines the 

impact of digital technologies on cultural longevity, communication, exposure, and the 

challenges faced by traditional cultural practices in the digital era. 

 

Music plays a crucial role in reflecting the ethnic and cultural distinctiveness of various 

groups in Nigeria. It serves as a mirror that celebrates the characteristics, history, and 

heritage of these communities, bringing their indigenous values, customs, traditions, and 

lifestyles to the forefront. By doing so, music helps to reinforce and maintain the cultural 

identities of different ethnic groups, fostering a sense of pride and connection among 

their members. Furthermore, music's ability to transmit orally across geographical 

locations makes it a powerful tool for communicating and teaching Nigeria's cultural 

identity to other cultures around the world. As music carries cultural values to foreign 

audiences, it becomes a means of promoting Nigerian culture internationally, fostering 

cross-cultural appreciation and understanding (Agu, 2019). 

 

Music also plays a vital role in shaping individual and collective identities. Various ethnic 

groups in Nigeria use music as a medium to express their unique identities, establish 

connections with their origins, and communicate their values to younger generations. 

Moreover, Nigerian traditional music serves as an educational tool, passing down cultural 

knowledge and customs to the youth and ensuring the preservation of cultural practices 

(Nnamani, 2019). 

 

Music has the power to unite people who share similar cultural values, beliefs, and 

traditions. It acts as a binding force, promoting social cohesion among communities within 

Nigeria (Nnamani, 2019). Additionally, music integrates the lifestyle of the people into 

its melodies and lyrics, becoming an essential aspect of social activities, celebrations, 

and rituals. Through music, cultural heritage becomes a living and dynamic force that 

continues to evolve while maintaining its authenticity (Akpakpan & Akpakpan, 2018). 

Music plays a critical role in promoting culturally oriented moral behaviours and attitudes. 

It can serve as a corrective tool, reprimanding society for immoral behaviours and 

attitudes that contradict the cultural identity and values of Nigerian ethnic groups. In 

this way, music becomes a powerful means of preserving traditional ethical standards and 

social norms (Akpakpan & Akpakpan, 2018; Samuel & Adekola, 2018). 

 

The digital era has further expanded the impact of music on cultural preservation in 

Nigeria. One significant phenomenon is the hybridization of musical styles, particularly 

evident in Nigerian hip-hop music. Through the fusion of indigenous Nigerian culture and 

modern influences, this genre creates new cultural identities that promote Nigerian 

traditions within contemporary contexts. This innovative blending helps preserve cultural 



 

 
  

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values while keeping them relevant to younger generations who are exposed to diverse 

global influences through digital media (Ojebuyi & Fafowora, 2021). 

 

Digital technologies have presented both opportunities and challenges for traditional 

practices in Nigeria. In terms of opportunities, digital technologies have been 

instrumental in promoting the transmission of ethnic and indigenous cultures and 

traditions. They serve as repositories of cultural memories, ensuring that traditional 

practices are preserved for future generations. Additionally, digital media and 

applications, such as animation and videos, have facilitated cultural education and 

communication, enabling the dissemination of traditional practices in modern ways 

(Morgan, 2020). Furthermore, Nigerian indigenous practices and culture have been able 

to gain global exposure, creating opportunities for native people to share their heritage 

with the world through digital platforms. This exposure has led to a greater appreciation 

and understanding of Nigerian culture on a global scale (Oryila & Aghadiuno, 2021). 

 

Despite the opportunities presented by digital technologies, they also pose challenges to 

traditional practices in Nigeria. The digital era has seen growing adoption of foreign 

cultures among the younger generation due to their exposure to foreign content through 

digital media. This has resulted in a decline in the ability to speak local or native languages 

and a decrease in adherence to traditional practices (Odiboh et al., 2018). In addition, 

Kayode-Adedeji et al. (2018) asserted that globalisation and digital media have brought 

elements of Westernisation to Nigerian indigenous cultures, leading to a loss of their 

inherent richness and uniqueness. Social media, in particular, has been blamed for 

contributing to the decline of family values and traditional practices that are 

characteristic of indigenous-oriented families (Kayode-Adedeji et al., 2018). 

 

In addition, exposure to Western traditions through digital media has led to a diminishing 

appreciation of Nigeria's ethnic and indigenous cultural practices, as some people may 

prioritise foreign cultures over their own (Asemah et al., 2014). Moreover, there has 

been a shift in preferences for foreign or Western content over traditional or domestic 

content in the digital era. This change in media consumption patterns has resulted in a 

decline in the visibility and promotion of Nigerian cultural heritage through digital 

platforms (Ortserga, 2013). 

 

6.0 Conclusion and Recommendation 

In conclusion, music plays a significant role in preserving and promoting cultural values, 

traditions, and beliefs in Nigeria. It serves as a mirror of cultural identities, facilitates 

the transmission of cultural knowledge, and promotes unity and integration among 

communities. However, the digital era has introduced both opportunities and challenges 

for traditional practices in Nigeria. While digital technologies have enhanced cultural 

longevity, communication, and exposure, they have also contributed to the decline of 

traditional practices and the Westernisation of indigenous culture. To address these 

challenges, stakeholders must actively promote and utilise digital platforms to preserve 

and promote Nigerian cultural heritage, ensuring its relevance and vitality in the digital 

era. 



 

 
  

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Based on the findings, Nigeria must strike a balance between leveraging digital 

technologies to preserve and promote its cultural heritage and addressing the challenges 

posed by the digital era. To do so, stakeholders should prioritise the use of digital 

platforms to showcase and educate the world about Nigeria's rich cultural values, 

traditions, and beliefs. Simultaneously, efforts should be made to reinforce the 

importance of traditional practices among the younger generation through education,  

community engagement, and media campaigns. By strategically embracing digital media 

and promoting cultural pride, Nigeria can safeguard its heritage while adapting to the 

dynamic digital landscape. 

 

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