Journal of Development Communication And Applied Theatre

The pervasive influence of Western media, globalization, and cultural imperialism poses a significant threat to indigenous cultures in Nigeria, particularly within urban communities. This encroachment has led to the dilution of traditional practices and the emergence of cultural hybridization among diverse ethnic groups. In response, the imperative for cultural preservation and promotion has become increasingly urgent, transcending social and professional boundaries. This paper investigates the role of Nigerian dramatists in advancing cultural preservation by embedding indigenous elements within their plays. Drawing on Myron Lustig’s Cultural Identity Theory, the study analyses selected works of Emeka Nwabueze, Ahmed Yerima, and Ola Rotimi, demonstrating that the incorporation of cultural motifs serves not merely as entertainment but as a deliberate strategy for safeguarding and promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage. The paper recommends that dramatists intensify the integration of cultural elements in their creative works and further proposes that the definition of African drama should explicitly recognize cultural authenticity as a core criterion.

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