For some people, a glass of water is considered enough to welcome a guest to one’s home. For others, a half gourd of uji or sour milk, for still others, an animal must die (chicken, goat, or even a whole cow, depending on the ‘weight’ of the guest)! Then there are those for whom a simple handshake and a “welcome” are acceptable.

Among the Igbo (or Ibo) of Nigeria, the first thing a visitor to the home is greeted with is kola nut. This has been a deeply entrenched tradition among the Igbo, and can be compared to the traditional American Indian peace pipe; some would even compare it to breaking bread in a religious context.

The kola nut has an esteemed position among the Igbo, and is the highest symbol of Igbo hospitality. Besides being served to guests on a social visit, it is also traditionally served before an important event – marriage ceremonies, settlement of family disputes, sealing of any kind of agreement between two or more parties, and during prayers and offerings during traditional ceremonies.

The kola nut is also said to have links to the spirit world, and because it is in such high demand, it can be scarce.

There is a ceremony surrounding the breaking and serving of the kola nut, which involves invoking blessings on the guests and the proceedings thereafter. And the kola nut is traditionally broken by men.

The nut is broken open and then into pieces that are chewed. The kola nut is an acquired taste as most find it quite bitter. It contains caffeine and can act as a stimulant.