The Ancients Prehistoric Nigeria: The Nok
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Mar 30, 2025 
Dr. Kevin MacDonald, a Professor of African archaeology at University College London, dives into the enigmatic Nok culture of ancient Nigeria. He discusses their breathtaking terracotta figurines and advancements in iron metallurgy. The conversation reveals insights about their societal structure, the challenges in preserving artifacts amidst looting, and fascinating cultural exchanges with neighboring regions. MacDonald also explores the significance of object imperfection in rituals and the lasting legacy of the Nok, shedding light on one of Africa's earliest civilizations.
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Nok Culture's Archaeological Nature
- The Nok culture is known exclusively through archaeological discoveries, lacking any textual records.
- Even the name "Nok" derives from the archaeological site of initial discovery, not a specific people or language.
Nok Culture's Time and Place
- The Nok culture existed in central Nigeria, around the Jos Plateau, from approximately 1500 BC to the first century AD.
- Archaeological work has expanded the known timeframe, revealing a much longer duration than initially thought.
Nok Culture's Rediscovery
- The Nok culture's rediscovery began in 1928 with terracotta figurines found during tin mining.
- Initial finds lacked context, later discoveries through excavation revealed settlement sites.