10 Nigerian Superstitions People Still Secretly Believe

While modern education and technology may have reduced the intensity of these beliefs, a part of Nigerians still respect the unseen rules that shape behaviour, choices, and even small daily actions. 

From household rules to street habits, these superstitions reflect Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and the way folklore has shaped everyday behaviour. 

Here are 10 Nigerian superstitions people still secretly believe:

1. Don’t Sweep at Night

Many Nigerians avoid sweeping the house after dark, fearing it will sweep away good luck, money, or fortune. Grandparents often warn that midnight cleaning could invite misfortune, and this belief persists in households across the country.

Even in modern apartments, some people leave sweeping for daylight hours only, just to be safe. Interestingly, this superstition sometimes affects work habits too,sweeping at night is considered disrespectful to the spirits believed to roam after sunset.

2. Knocking on Wood

Whenever someone boasts or expresses hope for something, the instinct to “knock on wood” kicks in. This simple ritual is meant to avoid tempting fate or attracting bad luck.

Many Nigerians practice this quietly, often tapping furniture or even their own head without thinking, especially after saying something positive, like “I haven’t been sick all year.” It’s a small, everyday habit that subtly reflects the human desire to influence luck.

3. Breaking a Mirror Brings Seven Years of Bad Luck

This superstition has survived generations, and even tech-savvy Nigerians sometimes pause after cracking a mirror.

The belief is that mirrors are a reflection of the soul, so breaking one disrupts energy and brings misfortune. From bathroom mirrors to decorative wall pieces, people still treat mirrors with extra caution, especially in shared homes.

4. Whistling at Night Attracts Spirits

Whistling at night is widely discouraged in Nigerian households. Many believe it invites evil spirits or bad luck into the home.

Even in urban cities where electricity keeps the streets bright, late-night whistling is frowned upon. Parents often warn children that spirits roam the streets after dark, and the sound of a whistle could guide them into their home.

5. Crossing Paths with a Black Cat

A black cat crossing your path is a superstition that can still raise eyebrows. While some dismiss it as old folklore, many Nigerians pause, cross their fingers, or take a detour just to avoid potential misfortune.

The belief has roots in colonial-era tales and local folklore, blending different cultural perceptions of cats as mystical creatures.

6. Numbers Can Be Unlucky

Certain numbers—like 13 or 4—are often avoided. Nigerians might skip these numbers when assigning house numbers, choosing lottery tickets, or even naming files and accounts.

The fear stems from old cultural beliefs that numbers carry spiritual energy. In business and personal life, avoiding “unlucky numbers” is seen as a precaution to prevent bad outcomes.

7. Pregnant Women Must Avoid Certain Foods

Superstitions around pregnancy remain strong. Some foods are believed to affect the baby’s health or appearance, while others are thought to attract evil spirits.

Expectant mothers often follow these dietary taboos, especially in rural areas, but even urban families sometimes adhere “just in case.” These beliefs are rooted in traditional medicine and local wisdom, blending caution with cultural identity.

8. Don’t Step Over Someone’s Legs

“Step over someone’s legs and you stunt their growth,” many Nigerian parents warn. This belief, though seemingly trivial, is drilled into children from a young age.

Even adults sometimes hesitate to break it, especially around younger family members. It highlights the way small actions are imbued with symbolic meaning in Nigerian culture, reflecting respect, caution, and care.

9. Opening Umbrellas Indoors Is Bad Luck

This superstition has been passed down for generations. Many Nigerians still avoid opening umbrellas inside, thinking it might bring misfortune or disturb household spirits.

Beyond homes, some offices and schools also practice this precaution. While it may seem like a simple precaution, it’s tied to beliefs about energy, luck, and spiritual respect.

10. Owls and Crows Are Omens

Birds like owls or crows are often seen as harbingers of news, sometimes bad, sometimes significant. Even in urban centres, a sudden hoot or caw can make people pause and reflect on possible warnings or messages.

These beliefs are particularly strong in rural areas, where folklore about birds guiding the future remains embedded in cultural storytelling.