Tribal marks are a dying tradition in Nigeria. They are given for many reasons, including identification or as a way to show wealth. For Nofisat’s family, tribal marks began many generations before her, when stillbirths were common. Her family began to mark their babies as a way of disfigurement so spirits wouldn’t want to take them. Nofisat was given her marks at seven days old, just a few days before her Naming Ceremony.
For some people today, tribal marks are fashionable, but others feel embarrassed or resentful. Nofisat says, “I turned my marks into a good thing. I’m proud to be recognized. It’s a part of my identity.”
You can see Parts I and II of this series here:
https://maundymitchell.com/scars/
https://maundymitchell.com/scars-part-ii/
Part IV is here: https://maundymitchell.com/scars-part-iv/
