The Lost Language of Nsibi (and its influence on pop culture today)

Hidden within Nigeria’s vibrant culture lies a forgotten language – Nsibidi. An ancient proto-writing communication system originating from ancient and pre-colonial southern Nigeria and parts of West Africa, nsibi holds a mysterious allure akin to the Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs and the archaic Cuneiform script.

Like these ancient scripts, Nsibidi is shrouded in obscurity, its teachings imparted only to a select few, symbolizing power and prestige. Reserved for the elites of tribes and secret societies, Nsibidi served as a clandestine form of communication, employing ideographic and mnemonic symbols that transcended linguistic barriers.

Its influence can be found in modern African pop culture, storytelling, literature, fashion, and even design. Ironically, the secrecy that shrouded Nsibidi in the past may be the key to its enduring presence in the cultural landscape today.