DOCUMENTING ELELE ALIMINI BLACKSMITHING FOR POSTERITY WITH INNOVATION TO ENHANCE NATION BUILDING IN THE NEW NORMAL: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This study examined and discussed Elele Alimini blacksmithing as an indigenous Ikwerre occupation in Nigeria. Blacksmithing, a surviving traditional source of livelihood in Elele Alimini that is much sought after in the phase of modernism is of great value to the people of Alimini and environs. Unfortunately, Western Education and consequent white-collar jobs, and other remunerative works desired by the youths have caused the decline of the art practice in Alimini Community and its environs. The objective of this study is to preserve the history of Elele Alimini blacksmithing in the reservoir of world art. The aim of the study is to establish the history of Elele Alimini Blacksmithing with the view of providing the proper and adequate information about it for posterity. The study made use of biographical survey of qualitative research methods and research questions which test the objective of the study as the basis of the investigation. This research design adopts the historical survey technique which relies on Primary and Secondary source of data collection. It was ascertained that blacksmithing is one of the indigenous Ikwerre potential occupations in Nigeria. Again, the history of the trade in Alimini should be kept for record purposes and further use. It also reveals the reasons of documenting Elele Alimini blacksmithing and suggests ways of continuing the art business in Alimini and Nigeria in general.