About the Ministry of Culture
Preserving Heritage, Empowering Creativity, Uniting Communities
About the Ministry of Culture, Delta State
The Ministry of Culture, Delta State, is the official government institution responsible for preserving, promoting, and developing the cultural assets of the state. Delta is a tapestry of diverse ethnic communities—Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, Anioma—each with deep-rooted traditions in language, music, dance, festivals, attire, and spiritual beliefs. its founding purpose, community outreach, support for traditional institutions, and its role in cultural preservation. It can highlight its work in funding local artists, organizing state-wide festivals, safeguarding heritage sites, and fostering creative industries like film, crafts, and music. The Ministry serves as both a custodian and catalyst—preserving heritage while empowering a new generation of creatives and cultural custodians through education, funding, advocacy, and tourism development.
Core Functions
Organize and support local and state-wide cultural festivals.
Maintain and develop cultural heritage sites and museums.
Support artists, performers, writers, and traditional custodians.
Promote cultural education and awareness across schools.
Manage research on traditional practices, oral history, and indigenous knowledge.
Create cultural tourism experiences to attract local and international visitors.
Cultural Heritage”
Urhobo
The Urhobo people are the largest ethnic group in Delta State. They are known for their strong traditional institutions, elaborate marriage and burial rites, and the famous Ohworhu and Suenu dances.
Itsekiri
Living along the coastal areas, the Itsekiri have a monarchical system headed by the Olu of Warri. Their culture blends indigenous traditions with Portuguese influences, especially in dress and ceremony.
Isoko
Closely related to the Urhobo, the Isoko people celebrate the Ivri festival and are known for their oral storytelling, song, and traditional crafts.
Ijaw
Predominantly found in riverine communities, the Ijaw people celebrate water deities, use canoes richly carved for rituals, and are known for vibrant masquerades.
Anioma (Igbo-speaking Delta)
The Anioma people wear the symbolic Akwa Ocha (white cloth) and celebrate festivals like Ine and Ofala. They are known for their masquerade dances and flute-driven music.
Shared Cultural Elements
Across these ethnic groups, Delta State culture is rich in folktales, traditional music, arts and crafts (beadwork, pottery, bronze casting), and communal festivals that mark the rhythm of life—births, harvests, initiations, and marriages.