THE IMPACT OF MODERN CLOTHING ON INDIGENOUS ATTIRES IN NIGER STATE

ABSTRACT

This study focused on the impact of modern clothing on indigenous attires in Niger State, the attires of the people appear to be changing rapidly as a result of the influx of the various types of modern clothing and related products. The study was motivated by the need to establish the impact of modern clothing on the indigenous attires. The problem of this study therefore, was to investigate, describe and analyze the impact of modern clothing on indigenous attires of Niger State and its consequences. These enabled the researcher to ascertain the gradual disappearance of the indigenous attires amongst the Nupe, Gbagyi, Hausa and Fulani in Niger State. The main objectives of the study were to identify and describe the types of modern clothing and textiles, the various types of indigenous attires in Niger State and to establish the impact of modern clothing on indigenous attires of Niger state. Descriptive survey design was adopted as the research design and method. Questionnaire, interview and observational schedules were administered on the sampled population that was made up of producers of modern and indigenous attire, marketers and consumers, and the data was analyzed using descriptive non- statistical method of data analysis which were discussed and interpreted. Information obtained from the completed and returned questionnaire and interview administered were coded in the coding sheets and fed to the computer with the help of a qualified computer analyst in order to determine the frequencies and percentages of the respondents. Major findings from the data analyzed showed that the influx of foreign fabrics and readymade clothing has really impacted and posed a significant threat to the continued existence of indigenous attires in the study area. It also shows that the importation of second hand clothing which is very cheap and always readily available has contributed seriously to the destruction of indigenous attires in Niger state. It was also found that modern clothing is accepted to be more suitable for most of the day to day activities by the people. Other findings from the study were that both males and females that use the modern clothing in the study areas said it gives them a smart look, confidence and comfort much more than the indigenous clothing. In conclusion, additional study was recommended that the people of Niger State should be encouraged to patronize the existing indigenous attires and how to blend it with modern clothing.