The symbols depicted on the white building in the Black Panther movie are rooted in Nsibidi, an ancient Nigerian language dating back to the 4th century. This secretive language, used by the Ekpe leopard society, employed pictography to convey meaning through the combination of symbols and imagery.
Nsibidi was primarily used by the Ekoi, Efik, and Igbo people across Cross River State. However, colonialism’s influence, including Western education and Christian doctrine, significantly reduced the number of people literate in Nsibidi, leaving mainly secret society members as the keepers of this ancient language.
Nsibidi continues to be a vital means of transmitting Ekpe symbolism. Interestingly, this language was transported to Cuba and Haiti through the Atlantic slave trade, evolving into the anaforuana and veve symbols. The Black Panther movie’s incorporation of Nsibidi highlights the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and its diasporic connections.”
Peoplesmind