Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Traditional Hausa cloths are significant cultural artifacts that reflect the rich heritage of the Hausa people in Nigeria. This research project focuses on a comparative collection of traditional Hausa cloths from Sokoto and Kebbi states. The study aims to explore the unique characteristics, patterns, and cultural significance of Hausa textiles in these regions. The research methodology involves a combination of fieldwork, interviews with local weavers and artisans, as well as archival research to gather information on the history and techniques of traditional cloth-making in Sokoto and Kebbi states. The study also includes a visual analysis of the materials, designs, and motifs used in Hausa cloths to identify commonalities and differences between the two regions. One of the key findings of the research is the diversity of weaving techniques and patterns employed by Hausa artisans in Sokoto and Kebbi states. While both regions share similarities in terms of using locally sourced materials such as cotton and silk, there are distinctive patterns and motifs that distinguish the textiles produced in each state. For example, Sokoto textiles are known for their intricate geometric designs, while Kebbi textiles often feature bold colors and floral patterns. Furthermore, the study examines the cultural significance of traditional Hausa cloths in both Sokoto and Kebbi states. These textiles play a vital role in Hausa ceremonies, rituals, and social customs, serving as symbols of identity, status, and cultural heritage. Understanding the meanings behind the motifs and designs woven into these cloths provides insights into the cultural values and beliefs of the Hausa people in Sokoto and Kebbi states. Overall, this research project contributes to the documentation and preservation of traditional Hausa textiles by highlighting the craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural significance of cloths produced in Sokoto and Kebbi states. By exploring the unique characteristics of these textiles and examining their role in Hausa society, the study sheds light on the rich cultural heritage of the Hausa people and the importance of traditional cloth-making practices in Nigeria.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF STUDY
Nigeria, among other African countries is known for her different
varieties of traditional cloths ranging from one ethnic group to the other. The evidence can
be seen from all the thirty six states in Nigeria; the clothing style of the eastern Nigeria diets from that of the northern Nigeria as so on.
Clothing is anything placed on the body to adorn or to motivate behavior (John and Foster, 1990). It includes all the different garments, accessories or
ornaments worn by people as well as their make-up and styles. Theories have attempted to explain the motivation factors underlying clothing choices and
decision. Such theories include: modesty, immodesty, protection and adornment theories (Marshal Jackson, Stanley, Kefgen and Touchie 2000). Modesty
theory focuses on standard regarding the area of the anatomy to be concealed and state that clothes are worn solely to conceal or cover nakedness (Marshal
et al. 2000). Various cultures have rules about modesty that relate to their use of clothing. The immodesty theory on the other hand states that clothing is not
to cover nakedness but to attract attention. The argument here is that wearing of garment is far erotic than in going without them (Marshal et al. 2000). The
protection theory view physical protection and psychological protection as major reasons of purpose of wearing clothes.
Dress or clothing is a kind of garment worn by people of all cultures since pre-historic times. Different peoples of the world have their unique dress culture.
The materials used for making dresses range from cotton, wool, silk fabric to flax fabric and rubber. Dresses that people in all cultures wear are determined by
a number of factors. The main factor that has determined, and is still determining, the variety of clothes in different times and locations, is climate (Braun,
2005). In Nigeria for instance, we have the rainy season and the dry season, with their characteristic cold and hot temperature. Dress culture therefore has to
bow to the prevailing weather condition. Dress culture has also been aected
by changing styles or fashion in vogue. Other factors that influence the dress
that people wear are the availability of materials, cost of materials, technology of the period, peoples’ social status, human migration, religious tradition,
assimilation of various traditions, social cosmopolitan outlook or modernity, travels and perhaps colonization, conversion and nationalism.