Ethnographic Study of the Royal Music of the Emir of Fika during the Convocation of Federal University Lokoja

Abstract

The Royal Music of the Emir of Fika, a traditional Nigerian ensemble, plays a vital role in the cultural and social life of the Bolewa‑speaking communities of northern Nigeria. Despite its significance, there is a dearth of research on this unique musical tradition, as it remains under‑documented. Current literature on Nigerian court music concentrates primarily on southern regions, creating a noticeable void regarding the unique instrumental repertoire, ensemble structure, and ceremonial roles of northern Nigerian music, particularly the Fika emirate. The study examined the Royal Music of the Emir of Fika, and its cultural significance within contemporary academic contexts. It highlights the musical practices that accompanied the Emir’s historic visit to Federal University Lokoja in October 2025, when the royal ensemble performed as part of the university’s chancellor’s night and convocation ceremony. The purpose of this study is to document and analyse the Royal Music of the Emir of Fika, highlighting its instrumentation, band formation and performance practices, function and cultural significance. The research employed a qualitative ethnographic approach, involving participant observation and audio-visual recordings of the Emir's music performance. The study reveals the unique blend of traditional and Islamic influences in the Emir's music, featuring a range of percussion instruments and aerophones. The findings of this study contribute to the preservation and promotion of Nigerian cultural heritage, providing insights into the role of traditional music in modern society. This research also benefits scholars, musicians, and cultural enthusiasts interested in Nigerian traditional music and cultural practices.