A Nigerian lady has become an online sensation after sharing a surprising cultural experience involving her mother-in-law and her newborn’s umbilical cord. The woman revealed that her mother-in-law used the baby’s umbilical cord to plant a plantain tree, an act that sparked curiosity and debate among social media users.
A Shocking Yet Symbolic Tradition
In a viral TikTok video posted by @mrsmajesty01, the young mother captured the exact spot in her compound where the plantain tree was planted using the umbilical cord of her infant son. She narrated how her mother-in-law insisted on performing the act, explaining that it was part of a traditional belief meant to bless the child and bring fruitfulness to the household.
The lady, who appeared both amused and fascinated by the incident, shared that although the idea initially surprised her, she eventually embraced it after understanding its cultural significance. She added that the custom was viewed by many elders as a symbolic gesture — one that connects the newborn to nature and ensures that the child’s life will be as fruitful and prosperous as the tree itself.
In her caption, she humorously wrote:
“Come see, my mother-in-law don use my son’s umbilical cord plant plantain for him. When e reach your turn throway am. We go too chop plantain next year.”
Deep Cultural Meaning Behind the Act
Reacting to the flood of comments her video generated, the new mother explained that the act is considered a blessing in some Nigerian communities. She described it as “a fun and meaningful custom,” likening it to a symbolic way of “opening an account” for the child — where the growing plant represents the child’s future prosperity and continuous growth.
“It’s not a scary thing,” she clarified in a follow-up comment. “It’s like saying this child will grow strong and fruitful, just like the tree.”
Many viewers were taken aback by the unusual tradition, while others shared that similar practices exist in different parts of Nigeria and Africa, where an umbilical cord is buried under a tree to signify the beginning of life and the connection between the child and the land.
The video has since attracted thousands of reactions across social media, with users expressing a mix of amusement, curiosity, and admiration for the preservation of such unique cultural practices. Some commenters called it “a beautiful symbol of tradition,” while others found it “strange but fascinating.”
A Family Tradition Passed Down Through Generations
The lady’s mother-in-law reportedly explained that she had done the same with her own children and grandchildren, emphasizing that each tree planted with an umbilical cord carries spiritual blessings and serves as a reminder of family continuity. She noted that the plantain tree is specifically chosen because of its productivity and ability to reproduce quickly — traits elders believe every child should possess.
The new mother expressed her excitement about watching the tree grow, saying she sees it as part of her child’s story. “Each time I look at the tree, I’ll remember where my son’s journey began,” she said proudly.
She also revealed plans to nurture the plant personally, jokingly adding that when it finally bears fruit, “we’ll celebrate and eat plantain together as a family.”
See below;
@mrsmajesty01
We go too chop plantain next year💃🏻💃 #fyp #viraltiktokr #firsttimemom
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