THE ORIGIN OF SPRAYING MONEY AT NIGERIAN PARTIES

Money spraying is a tradition that is held in high esteem in almost every part of Africa. Money changers and POS officials have become a regular sight at events such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, etc. This act is practiced more often by Nigerians in every part of the world but it’s exact origin is often debated.

EUROPEAN ORIGIN

As much as a claim may be laid on this culture originating in Africa, the true heritage of the money dance, stemmed from different parts of the world. Some countries in Europe, Latin America, and other parts have various names for this practice such as money shower, money pinning, apron dance, etc.

According to research, the earliest manifestation of this tradition, termed “apron dance”, began during the 1900s in Poland, and it was mainly done at weddings. During the festivities, guests had to ask permission and paid for the privilege to have a one-on-one dance with either the bride or groom. After seeking consent from the bride and groom, the payment was given to the maid of honor and best man. Afterward, the money collected was then attached on a special apron worn by the bride while each participant received a shot of whisky after the dance.

Countries like the Philippines also practice this money dance and it is called “pabaon sa binbining” in Filipino which translates to “gift of the bride”. The act has since been renamed money pinning and was mostly done during nuptial celebrations, with guests taping the money or wrapping it in the couple's clothes while they danced. The male guest pins it on the bride while the female guest pins the bills on the groom. Guests could get creative with it by turning the money into a garland or a crown which could take a while but after that, they all danced with the couple. This custom signifies financial assistance for the celebrants and is also a nice fun way to show them love.

For the Portuguese, this practice is known as the money dance and it is also a nuptial event where male guests line up to dance with the bride. Originally involving the bride only, this rite took a turn and was extended to the groom as well so he could also partake in the dance. The bride's father had the first dance with his daughter while the mother of the groom had her dance with her son. After this, the bride takes off her shoes and places them in the middle of the dance floor while the dance is ongoing so guests can pass them around for money collection.

Also, the Cajun who trace their history back to French Acadian exiles are known to take part in this culture though they currently reside in Louisiana. The wedding includes the money dance which traditionally involves guests pinning money on the bride's veil. These days, an extension has been made for the groom so he also gets money pinned on his suit for a dance request.

Mexico is another country where this money dance is done. A popular name for it by immigrants in the USA is “dollar dance” and it is mainly done at nuptials. This tradition arrived from Spain to Mexico and has ingrained itself into the wedding culture in Latin America. At the wedding, guests lined up with the money to offer the couple in exchange for a dance. Sometimes, the money is pinned to the couple's clothing, while others prefer to spray it on them during the couple’s first dance. A few newlyweds select a designated person to collect the money so it doesn’t leave everywhere disorderly.

When it came to Greece, this dance became more of a money shower than a money dance. It usually took place at the wedding ceremony when the couples had their first dance. Guests surround them and throw stacks of money in the air to wish them prosperity and good luck in their new union. Oftentimes, couples opt to have a person on standby with a purse or bag to either help pick up the money while it is being sprayed or collect the money from guests before it is showered. The money dance practice is one that’s popularized in Slavic countries and other places like Ukraine, Cuba, Hungary, etc.

NIGERIAN ORIGIN

The foundation of this money dance is one that almost all African cultures are fully familiar with, especially in Nigeria where this tradition is termed “money-spraying”.The act is deeply rooted in various ethnic groups and is still being practiced to this day.

Amongst the tribes who practice this tradition are the Igbo people. Money spraying has been a part of their custom and was done at events like masquerade festivals and celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, etc. This custom is still practiced in almost every region in the East and is also an integral part of their weddings. The Igbos perform a wedding custom known as “husband searching”  which is related to the money dance. During the ritual, The bride takes a cup of wine and searches for her husband in the crowd till she sees him, then she kneels before him and offers it to him. After he is done, he puts some money in the cup and ushers her to the dance floor where he sprays her money. Family and friends also join in this display by throwing money at the couple.

Additionally, most parts of the southern region especially the Niger Delta also practice this money spraying. The act takes place at birthdays, inaugurations, and other events but is mostly done at wedding parties. In the Niger Delta locality especially in the Ijaw tribe, the groom has to continuously spray the bride till she smiles to show her appreciation and if she doesn’t, he keeps lavishing her with money. While in the Edo region, the money dance is known as “Ivie Aso” and it is seen as a way to bless the union of the newlyweds.

Although this money spraying was practiced in different regions of Nigeria, the openness and constant display of this act was mostly carried out by the Yoruba tribe. This western tribe was known for their flamboyance and extravagant displays when it came to parties and merriment. Money spraying was done on a large scale, especially at weddings and this is due to an ancient wedding custom known as “iyawo oshun”. This custom involves spraying money on the newlyweds to represent good luck and happiness for them. By throwing gold coins, crisp notes, and dollar bills, the guests and family show affection towards the celebrators.

Undoubtedly this act is embedded in Nigerian culture. One key similarity that cuts across all ethnicity is that the custom largely originated from wedding practices. Even though it usually happens at parties with family, friends, and well-wishers in attendance, It is an act commonly done on a grander and larger scale at nuptials. During the reception of a Nigerian wedding, the newlyweds are ushered in with their entourage and are lavished with money on their way in. Afterward, the couple begins their first dance and are joined by family and friends who spray large stacks of bills. It is normally done in different variations with some throwing the money in the air and others simply placing the money on the newlywed's body or forehead.

POPULARITY OF MONEY SPRAYING IN NIGERIA

Although this act has its roots in different cultures and ethnicities, the money-spraying rose to fame in Nigeria shortly after the country’s independence in 1960. During this period, oil refineries and resources that were discovered two years earlier became the sole property of the Nigerian people.

The country also experienced an oil boom in 1973 which led to the dramatic rise of prices in oil export. This brought about an economic incline that made a lot of folks in the oil industry incredibly wealthy as ownership of any mineral resources found on this land could be traded and profited from.

Also, countries from around the world saw this economic explosion and wanted to share in the Nigerian glory. So, trade in both oil and other resources skyrocketed with foreign countries wanting to invest in Nigeria. They also sought to bring about industrialization and development in the agricultural and infrastructure sector to a third-world nation. Although still considered underdeveloped by a host of other countries, the economic boom and the constant trade with foreign countries said otherwise.

With the rise in prosperity, came about the increase in richness and affluence for a lot of citizens. Because of the swift increase in wealth and the newly founded Independence, Nigerians always found a reason to display this fortune by throwing celebrations and events. A lot of Nigerians had more than enough to spend so there were a lot of intercontinental trips. Some went abroad for the holidays and pleasure trips, while others went shopping. Importation of leather and marble from Italy and other foreign items also became a new popular trend. The main highlights were the lavish parties and events held, where newly acquired affluence could be showcased by spraying money on dancers, musicians, and celebrants.

This tradition has endured through time to become very popularized and trendy to this day amongst both the rich and middle class. Now, couples and celebrants everywhere look forward to the money spray as it is a time when people lavish their money on them and even guests too. Though it might have turned into an ego-greasing contest in some places, It is still a practice that is anticipated by all. Not only is the money helpful to the host(as it should be), but it’s also a fun and lavish way to support friends and family.

SIMILARITIES

With this practice being prominent in foreign cultures, especially during weddings, it is only natural that some aspects of other traditions seep into Nigerian customs. The most relatable has to be the Greek money shower which is similar to the already existing money spraying practice. Though there is no record of which came first, there’s no denying that both customs are intertwined in all but name.

CO-EXISTENCE ( FUSION OF CUSTOMS)

A lot of admirable qualities could be adopted from foreign money dance. Seeing as how parts of the tradition have a similar tone in Nigeria, it is quite easy to blend a few with the already existing practice. These adaptations can be a way to solve some pre-existing problems.

A dilemma caused by money spraying in Nigeria is largely attributed to superstitious omens. Some people believe that guests spraying money or placing bills on the celebrant's forehead may lead to ill luck and destiny trapping. In this scenario, the Portuguese money dance practice could be adopted so guests put money in the shoes of the host instead.

Also, a recent law was passed that prohibits the defamation of money in Nigeria, making guests and celebrators who spray money and step on it, lawbreakers. To maintain this tradition and avoid any breach of the law, the host can opt for the Polish practice where guests pin the money on the couple or celebrants this way there’s no offense committed and support can still be shown.

CONCLUSION

Even though this tradition dates far back, it is still largely embedded in Nigerian society. It has even become a new thread practiced by foreigners in the UK, USA, and other parts of the world. The act is one that’s viewed with awe and fascination by foreigners and outsiders but it's loved and done by almost all Nigerians. Money spraying is a flamboyant display of richness and grand style, popularity attributed to Nigerians all over. A custom that was formerly done by the rich and influential has now become a tradition, largely accepted by every societal sect. It is a display that has stood the test of time and shows no signs of stopping. The invention of machines like money guns has also helped to make this practice more rambunctious.

Although the money spraying might be viewed as an excessive display of wealth and ego, its key value and importance are largely centered around the hosts. It is a positive way for family and friends to show good gestures by blessing the celebrant as they begin a new journey. It is also seen as a good way to alleviate any financial burden the host might have accumulated during the planning of the event.