Fulani Traditional Marriage

The Fulani people of Northern Nigeria have distinctive features similar to the Ethiopians, Sudanese and the Egyptians. It is difficult to pinpoint the exact origin judging by their population in Chad and Niger

The Fulani people are traditionally herdsmen who follow Islamic laws and teachings.  Cattles are an important part in their daily living which is used extensively in traditional ceremony.

An important fact about the Fulani people is their love for their cattle, they can do the impossible just to rescue a cow in danger.  As nomadic and pastoral herdsmen, they move around with their cattle and are known to be brave, hard-working and courageous.

As a people, even though scattered in many countries, they have a culture that unite and binds them together wherever they are.

One major difference between Fulani and Hausa people is their views on marriage. Below are stages of Fulani marriage ceremony


The Sharo.

This is where the bravery of a man is proved during the traditional marriage. The Sharo is basically the flogging of the groom, he is not expected to shed tears as he is whipped in public. The process is done to test his courage, strength, bravery and discipline. Failure to withstand the pain will cost the groom his bride.



This stage is probably the most important part of a Fulani traditional marriage ceremony because it involves the dowry and the bride price.

  • The groom’s family are given a herd or herds of cattle as dowry by the bride’s father
  • Gift items are then transferred from the groom to the bride as the bride price. The real price is the groom’s acceptance to assist his father in-law in taking care of his cattle, once terms are reached and concluded, the union is legalized.


The Kabbal.

This is a form or religious wedding which takes place in the groom’s absence. After this, the woman is escorted to her husband’s home where she would be received by the women in the compound.

You might also like More from author

Leave A Reply

Your email address will not be published.