Assessment of the Impact of Modernization on the Traditional Igala House Form

Abstract

Traditional African Architecture dates back to the late Stone Age. It is one of the oldest and richest architecture the world ever had, almost the only one that still survives from the dawn of human history. Since the advent of globalization, many nations have experienced transformation with their identity. Nigerian culture, tradition, architectural identity, since colonialism have experienced rapid transformation resulting from various external influences. The Igala ethnic group of North Central Nigeria has a unique traditional house form that has transformed significantly between the periods of colonization and contemporary times. The aim of this study is to assess and identify the major influences of modernization and how they impacted on the traditional Igala house form. The study investigated the traditional Igala house form and its transformation between pre-colonial and contemporary periods. This study through oral interview and field study, as well as intensive literature review critically assessed the impact of modernization on traditional Igala house form and also identified factors that influenced the modern transformation of the traditional Igala house form. These factors formed the main body of the structured questionnaire which was administered to various professionals in the study area. The study revealed that the traditional Igala house form has significantly transformed, and is fast becoming extinct. The study advocates determined effort to revive the dying indigenous Igala architectural house form and evolve new but acceptable architectural forms that recognize the culture of the people with respect to current development.