Marriage in Nigeria is not just about love, it’s an entire financial operation. For some tribes, paying bride price is like signing a contract where your wallet commits fully before your heart does. If you’re thinking of marrying into any of these tribes, better start saving aggressively or considering a side hustle.
1. Mbaise People (Imo State) – The Premium Package
Forget love at first sight, this one is love at first calculation. The Mbaise people don’t play when it comes to bride price.
Their marriage process involves a detailed list of financial requirements that would make even a wedding planner sweat.
From cash payments to multiple gifts for relatives, getting an Mbaise bride will test your financial discipline. If you survive, congratulations, your reward is a wife who knows her worth.
Note: Mr. Raymond Chinaka, an Mbaise elder begs to differ, he says “the actual bride price is “25 naira” only! I can assure you!”
Well, what do we know?
2. Bororo Fulani (Adamawa State) Cows or Nothing
For the Bororo tribe, it’s not about money but livestock , specifically cows.
Depending on negotiations, the groom might need anywhere between 10 to 50 cows to secure his bride.
Imagine waking up one morning and realizing that your entire future depends on the market price of cattle. If cow inflation ever becomes a thing, best believe Bororo men will be sweating buckets.
Note: Mr. Hassan Aliu says, “The bride doesn’t cost that much,it’s just mere rumours!”
Rumours? Ontop 50 cows? God Abeg!
3. Kalabari People (Rivers State) – Marriage as a Financial Plan
If you think Kalabari weddings are just parties, think again. The amount of money required before the celebration even starts is enough to send your savings account into cardiac arrest.
With expenses often exceeding N1 million, you need to be financially stable before stepping into a Kalabari home with marriage intentions. They respect tradition, but they also respect a man with deep pockets.
4. Okrika People (Rivers State) Luxury Bride Market
Okrika weddings are elaborate and expensive, with bride price payments reaching N1.5 million or more. Forget small negotiations, the groom must prove he can handle responsibility by fulfilling all financial obligations.
The process is serious, so if you’re thinking of marrying an Okrika woman, be ready for a marriage that starts with an invoice.
Love Isn’t Cheap in these states, that’s for sure.
Bride price in Nigeria is more than just a financial requirement, it’s a cultural rite that symbolizes respect, commitment, and a formal connection between families.
While some people argue that it’s too expensive, others see it as a necessary tradition.
