The Interesting Rites of the Idoma Naming Ceremony You Should Know

The Interesting Rites of the Idoma Naming Ceremony You Should Know

The Idoma naming ceremony is a ceremony performed to usher in a new baby to the world. Idoma is one of the languages in Benue State, Nigeria. It is the second majority language spoken in Benue in north-central Nigeria. Also, the second-largest ethnic group in Benue State. 

In terms of culture, Idoma has a diverse range of traditions. In their traditional dress, the Idoma use two primary colours: red and black. The red represents monarchy, while the black represents the soil and burial shrouds.

The Idoma people occupy nine (9) local government areas out of the 23 local governments, the Idoma local government includes Ado, Agatu, Apa, Obi, Ohimni, Ogbadibo, Oju, Okpokwu, and Otukpo local government areas. Idoma has a very large population of about 3 million people.

The people of Idoma have a traditional ruler called Och’idoma, who handles the affairs of the Idoma people. The Idoma people are unique in terms of their culture and traditions. Therefore, I will be sharing with you the unique way in which the Idoma naming ceremony is carried out. 

Idoma Naming Ceremony

A naming ceremony is a process of assigning a name to a child who has just been born. It is usually performed to welcome a new child into a family.

Idoma naming ceremony is a postnatal event that is customarily held after a child is delivered, much as it is in other cultures. It however differs from the naming ceremony in Hausaland.

The birth of a child into an Idoma family is a thing of joy as the entire family is excited most importantly, giving glory to God for the gift of life and the sound delivery of the baby. Therefore, they don’t hesitate in celebrating the baby and the mother in an event known as the naming ceremony.

However, this procedure can be influenced by the religion of the parents, traditional worshipers or Christian worshipers, and others. Furthermore, the Idoma naming ceremony is usually carried out on the seventh day of a child’s birth.

The Necessary Procedure for Naming a Child in Idoma

This process has been in existence right from the beginning. Let’s take a look at them:

Step 1: A time is set on the seventh day for the child’s birth if both parents find it convenient for them. But it’s optional, so it can be on the seventh, twelfth, or fourteenth day after the child’s birth, but originally, it is best done after seven days.

Step 2: All family members are invited from both parents, likewise well-wishers, and friends. Furthermore, the women amongst the guests usually make a certain sound as soon as the child is brought out for the naming ceremony.

Step 3: A prayer is said before the entire process begins. It’s said depending on the religious beliefs of the parents.

Step 4: Worship will be ascribed to God by an individual according to their religious beliefs.

Step 5: Both the mother and father are asked to speak, after which the naming proper begins.

Step 6: An elder or a pastor depending on their religion takes the baby and asks the people in attendance to say a collective prayer for the child – praises, and prayers are offered for the blessing of a newborn baby.

Step 7: Afterwards the name of the child is called out, which is chosen based on the agreement of the father and mother. Both parents express their love and commitment to their child, recognize the role of family and friends, and express hope for their child’s future.

Step 8: Palm oil will be brought closer to the baby, after which a drop will be put in the baby’s mouth and everyone present will taste the oil, as a sign of blessing for the baby. After that, the celebration begins, which means dancing and eating, followed by receiving gifts from well-wishers.

Step 9: Finally, everyone who took part in the naming ceremony is rubbed with white powder.

However, on that day of the naming ceremony, the child is expected to be circumcised if he is a male, and the ears of the female are pierced (optional). Oftentimes, this is done in the early hours of the day before the naming ceremony properly begins. 

Essentially, the ideas for the Idoma naming ceremony are tailored to the religion of the parents. Unless the parents are deeply religious or culturally inclined, it is not surprising that some parents name their baby at the time of birth.

Perhaps, you’re unsure of what name to give to your child, check out the names below and their meanings for both masculine (males) and female (feminine).

Native Idoma Male Names and Their English Meaning

1. Ameh: A strong man/ Man of wisdom.
2. Akum: My own
3. Adole:  Father of the house
4. Adokole: The man of the house
5: Abahi: Someone born with a silver spoon

Native Idoma Female Names and Their English Meaning

6. Ada:  First daughter
7. Ene:  Mother
8. Enayi: Mother of Children
9. Ehi: Gift
10. Enuwa: Their mother

Conclusion

The Idoma people’s mode of naming a child isn’t complicated but very easy. Also, you don’t have to gather a crowd before the naming ceremony is valid. Therefore, it’s within an affordable budget of how much it costs to raise a child in northern Nigeria.

20 Cute Gifts Every Mother Will Love on Naming Ceremony

20 Cute Gifts Every Mother Will Love on Naming Ceremony

The arrival of a newly born child is a heartwarming occasion for the parents, friends and family. But with this comes the choices on them to choose gifts for baby naming ceremony and it can be overwhelming.

Read: How Naming Ceremony is Done in HausaLand

Gifting something to a newly born child can be indecisive, we know that. Here’s a list of gifts to choose from when the going gets hard.

20 Gift to Gift for Baby Naming Ceremony

1. Baby Diapers

ou can never go wrong with gifting diapers. There are many brands out there such as Pampers, Molfix, Dr. Browns, Huggies, etc.

Babies are in their prime and as such, trust them to pee around the house. You can never go wrong with gifting diapers. There are many brands out there such as Pampers, Molfix, Dr. Browns, Huggies, etc.

Make sure to buy one that is pocket friendly.

2. Diaper Bag

Attach a diaper bag to your diapers to gift for baby naming ceremony.

I mean, make your gift unique and stand out. Attach a diaper bag to your diapers to gift for baby naming ceremony. A diaper bag can contain tissues, baby wipes, diapers too and this will be quite handy for the new mom.

3. Baby Sleeping Cot

This was the gift I gave my friend who put to bed last year and she loved it so much. Trust pink to be cute.

A good sleeping cot is one with musicals that helps keep the baby entertained and the Moms busy with their chores. It’s a win-win if you ask me.

4. Baby Photo Album

Talk about a sentimental gift for the new mom. This is thoughtful as you give the new Mom chances to capture every moment of her newborn baby. Baby footprints, birth height, birth weight etc.

This is an important gift and it helps keep the memories.

5. Jewelries

A simple bracelet or angle is a beautiful gift that is sure to put a smile on the new Mom’s face and the baby too. You can gift them before the beautiful day or afterwards.

A simple bracelet or angle is a beautiful gift that is sure to put a smile on the new Mom’s face and the baby too. You can gift them before the beautiful day or afterwards.

6. Baby Toys

Baby toys are great gifts to gif out on naming ceremony

A gift that is sure to be appreciated is a baby toy and there are different kinds to pick from. They are soft, adorable and snuggly.

A rattler is a good choice to help entertain the baby when they start to cry.

7. Baby Frame

Get a picture from the new Mom and frame this in a beautiful piece. You can never go wrong with this and the parents will keep this as a keepsake among them and this is quite sentimental.

8. Naming Day Keepsakes

A naming day keepsake can be displayed and hung in the house as a reminder of when the baby was born. This is a wonderful piece and also an interior decor.

9. Engraved Key Chain

A naming day keepsake can be displayed and hung in the house as a reminder of when the baby was born. This is a wonderful piece and also an interior decor.

A tinge but mighty if you ask me. This keychain will be quite useful to the new Mom and having her newborn face on it will warm up her heart every time. Giving this out is thoughtful, smart and quite budget-friendly.

10. Baby Clothes

Baby clothes are one of the best gifts

There are a lot to choose from here, socks, mittens, caps, overalls, jackets, dresses, even cardigans for the cold.

11. Baby Blanket

This will do wonders, trust me.

12. Baby Teether/Pacifier

This teething toy is natural rubber and it keeps the baby from eating anything and everything.

13. Baby Bath

This is the most beautiful and sensible gift for baby naming ceremony

This is the most beautiful and sensible gift for baby naming ceremony. It’s never too much to ha be two or three, you know. They come in different colours and sizes to select from.

14. Baby Swaddle

This is another must give gift for parents who just gave birth.

15. Baby Skincare Essentials

Who said babies don't need skincare products?

Baby essentials include baby lotion, baby shampoo, baby calming comfort bath and baby oil, etc. Be sure to buy products that won’t be sensitive to their skin.

16. Baby Feeding Essentials

Feeding essentials include baby bottles, feeding bowls, cups, cutleries and bips. I have a friend on Instagram who is into this and trust me, you’ll love everything.

17. Baby Hooded Towel

This is the cutest gift for baby naming ceremony, trust me.

This is the cutest gift for baby naming ceremony, trust me. Babies take alot of baths and this is something that will always look cute on them. Pick from a variety of colors for the new Mom.

18. Baby Hop Explore

this table is great for babies and sure to keep them entertained, playing and giddy.

With spinning, squeaking and entertaining elements, this table is great for babies and sure to keep them entertained, playing and giddy.

19. Baby Bed Linen

When in doubt, just buy this.

When in doubt, just buy this.

20. Baby Carrier

With this gift for baby naming ceremony, you’re with two choices: a carrier sling or a carrier with wheels. Both are smart and thoughtful and will be appreciated.

With this gift for baby naming ceremony, you’re with two choices: a carrier sling or a carrier with wheels. Both are smart and thoughtful and will be appreciated.

That’s a wrap for what to gifts for baby naming ceremony. Now, if you’re the type who’s very thoughtful, you’ll also want to give something to the new Mom. Below is a list of unique and useful gifts you can give to them to brighten their day:

Gifts for Mothers Who Just Gave Birth

1. Matching Outfits

This is to die for, trust me! This will not only brighten her face but also warm her heart as she can’t wait to try this on with her mini. Get creative with your words if you can or simply write something the new Mom uses often. But that asides, the thought counts.

2. Kitchen Essentials

Is new Mom a baker? If yes, here’s a link below to choose from.

3. Fruits Basket

This basket of love is very thoughtful and will be appreciated. This will tell the new Mom you wish her strength and to be healthy. I mean, an apple a day keeps the doctor away.

4. Order Food Delivery Service for Her

Want to go for something better? Think foodie! Have a platter of food delivered to the new Mom. This will be something pleasant and heartwarming. I mean, who wouldn’t like that? Small chops are always our go-to!

5. Pajamas

Let Mommy sleep in something new and comfortable. This will be useful to the new Mom plus, if you’re the naughty one and can’t wait for more minis, sneak in some red sexy lingerie.

What to Look For In Gifts for Baby Naming Ceremony?

Here’s what to look for when deciding on the special and unique gift:

1. Usefulness

Ensure you choose from gifts that will be useful to the baby and also smart.

2. Sentimental Value

Be sure to select a gift that is meaningful and will be cherished for years to come.

3. Fun and Entertainment

Select a gift that is sure to keep the baby entertained and giddy such as rattlers, rolling rattles, toys, kick and play the piano etc.

Conclusion

When overwhelmed with what to buy, don’t forget that it is the thought that matters and little is enough. Every gift will be appreciated, it’s coming from the heart. Don’t forget that.

You could also check: The 10 Best Clothes You Should Own this Harmattan