Yoruba traditional weddings are a captivating blend of deep-rooted customs, colourful attires and vibrant celebration.

They represent more than the union of two people, they are a coming together of families. Every detail in the ceremony holds cultural significance, from the family introductions to the colorful procession and, of course, the cherished Eru Iyawo (Bride’s List).

Before any ring is offered, a Yoruba groom must visit the bride’s family to seek their blessing to marry their daughter. This is not just a formality; it’s a show of intent, honour, and humility. Only after this blessing can he propose.

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Following the proposal, the next significant event is the family introduction. This is where both families, including extended members officially meet for the first time. The successful completion of this meeting sets the wedding planning into full gear.

Another key part of Yoruba traditional weddings is the Eru Iyawo — a list of engagement gifts given by the bride’s family to the groom and his people. This list, typically handed down by the eldest member of the bride’s family, contains items the groom must present on the wedding day.

Arguably, one of the most breathtaking moments in a Yoruba wedding is the bride’s entrance. When she is dressed in rich, often handwoven aso-oke fabric. Her attire typically consists of a fitted blouse (buba), a wrap skirt (iro), a wide head tie (gele), and a shoulder sash (ipele), all coordinated in dazzling colours and adorned with beads, gold jewelry, and sometimes coral accessories.

ALSO READ: 22 stunning civil court wedding dresses for Nigerian brides-to-be

It’s 2025, and Yoruba brides are redefining tradition. The classic iro and buba have evolved into stunning modern twists, and we’ve compiled 20 gorgeous styles to inspire every Yoruba bride this year.

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ALSO READ: 14 stunning pre-wedding photo shoot ideas to capture your love story

Nigeria offers a diverse mix of federal, state and private institutions that lead in STEM teaching, research and industry collaboration. From the country’s first university with decades of academic pedigree to specialised technology campuses and forward looking private schools, these universities combine rigorous curricula, modern facilities and partnerships with global firms.

Whether you plan to pursue engineering, computer science, biotechnology or applied mathematics, the eight universities below provide comprehensive programs, hands-on research opportunities and clear pathways into high impact careers.

• University of Ibadan (Ibadan)

  Nigeria’s inaugural university features research centres in nuclear physics, biotechnology and materials science. Its Faculty of Science maintains advanced labs for spectroscopy and chromatography while the Department of Computer Science runs high performance computing clusters and machine learning projects. Collaborative engineering programs with international partners offer dual degree options and exchange programs so students tackle real world challenges and publish peer reviewed work.

• University of Nigeria Nsukka (Nsukka)

  College of Engineering includes facilities for structural testing, robotics and power systems. Its Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centre guides student teams from concept to prototype through hackathons, incubators and pitch competitions. The Centre of Excellence in Nigerian Food Science and Technology bridges academia and industry by involving students in value addition projects for local crops and networking with manufacturers.

ALSO READ: 2025 Rankings: UNILAG, OAU miss out on top 10 most prestigious universities in Nigeria

• Obafemi Awolowo University (Ile Ife)

  OAU’s Faculty of Technology offers programs in aerospace, chemical and metallurgical engineering using wind tunnels and pilot scale reactors. The Department of Computer Science hosts cybersecurity exercises and AI ethics workshops funded by government and private grants. The environmental biotechnology centre applies microbial techniques to waste management and agricultural productivity, engaging students in field trials.

• Federal University of Technology Akure (Akure)

  FUTA specialises in applied science with schools in petroleum engineering, geophysics and agricultural technology. Its Nanotechnology Research Centre provides nanoscale imaging and fabrication tools. Partnerships with multinational firms secure industrial internships. The annual science fair showcases student innovations in renewable energy, smart irrigation and affordable diagnostic tools.

• University of Lagos (Lagos)

  Unilag’s Faculty of Science features clean room labs for semiconductor research. The Industry Academia Liaison Office places students in internships with fintech firms and telecom operators. The Department of Computer Science’s data science lab works on urban mobility analytics while the renewable energy research centre pilots solar microgrid installations in underserved areas.

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• Ahmadu Bello University (Zaria)

  ABU houses the Advanced Materials and Energy Research Institute where students develop solar cooling units and biofuel prototypes. The STEM Teacher Training Centre prepares graduates to improve science and math education nationwide. The civil and environmental engineering department partners with state agencies on water purification and flood control projects, giving hands-on experience in public infrastructure.

• Federal University of Technology Owerri (Owerri)

  FUTO offers courses in petrochemical engineering, geosciences and computer engineering. The Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies runs incubators, seed fund competitions and mentorship by alumni in international tech hubs. Research labs focus on IoT based agriculture, drone inspection of pipelines and polymer recycling, with students presenting findings at global conferences.

• Covenant University (Ota)

  Covenant provides labs for biotechnology, mechatronics and environmental engineering along with guaranteed internships at partner firms in pharmaceuticals and renewable energy. The Research, Innovation and Discovery Centre funds student startups in AI driven diagnostics and smart grid solutions. A low faculty to student ratio ensures close mentorship while entrepreneurship courses include pitch training and venture capital engagement.

By studying at one of these institutions, aspiring STEM professionals gain access to robust academic programs, industry grade facilities and a supportive environment that bridges theory with practice, positioning graduates to drive Nigeria’s next wave of scientific and technological breakthroughs.

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Factors such as rising living costs abroad, family obligations and evolving career prospects at home all play a part. Many returnees cite professional opportunities driven by a booming tech and creative economy, improved ease of doing business and supportive government incentives.

Others are motivated by cultural ties, healthcare accessibility and a desire to contribute directly to national development.

Whether driven by personal, economic or social considerations, these returnees are reshaping Nigeria’s workforce and strengthening communities with the skills and experiences they’ve gained abroad.

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1) Rising cost of living and exchange-rate pressures

Inflation and housing costs in major diaspora destinations have soared, reducing disposable income. At the same time currency fluctuations make remittances less valuable. Returning home allows many to leverage lower domestic expenses, own property more affordably and stretch their earnings further.

2) Family responsibilities and social bonds

Elder care, child education and major life events often prompt a sense of duty to be closer to relatives. Cultural traditions emphasise communal support, so many returnees prefer to fulfil parental expectations and build their children’s sense of identity by raising them in a Nigerian environment.

3) Expanding career opportunities in emerging sectors

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Nigeria’s tech hubs, creative industries and agribusiness are experiencing rapid growth. Startups and established firms alike offer roles that value international experience. Returnees find chances to lead projects, launch ventures or secure executive positions that may have been less accessible abroad.

4) Government incentives and ease of repatriation

Policies such as simplified expatriate quotas, tax relief for returning professionals and funding for diaspora-led enterprises have reduced barriers to return. Streamlined processes for recognizing foreign qualifications and opening local bank accounts further smooth the transition.

5) Desire to contribute to national development

Many who gained skills overseas feel called to apply their expertise to local challenges. Returnees often take roles in public policy, education and healthcare, hoping to drive systemic improvements and mentor the next generation of Nigerian leaders.

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6) Improved infrastructure and services

Recent investments in road networks, power supply and digital connectivity have enhanced business environments and quality of life. Better hospitals, international schools and urban amenities make Nigerian cities more attractive to those who once left seeking better conditions.

7) Strengthened support networks for returnees

Professional associations and diaspora organisations now offer mentorship, networking events and relocation assistance. From housing referrals to business incubation programs, these support structures help returnees reintegrate more smoothly and amplify their impact at home.

By returning with fresh insights, skills and capital, Nigerians abroad are helping to accelerate economic growth, enrich cultural life and forge stronger communities across the country.

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