List Of Indigenous Tribes, Languages, And Ethnic Groups In Cross River State, Nigeria
Cross River State, located in southeastern Nigeria, is one of the most culturally diverse states in the country. With over 25 indigenous ethnic groups and languages, the state boasts a rich blend of traditions, customs, and cultural heritage. It shares borders with Cameroon, which has influenced its linguistic and cultural landscape.
This article provides a comprehensive list of the indigenous tribes, ethnic groups, and languages spoken in Cross River State, shedding light on their history, culture, and identity.
1. Overview of Ethnic Diversity in Cross River State
Cross River State is a multi-ethnic and multilingual state, with Efik, Ejagham (Ekoi), Bekwarra, Yakurr, and Bokibeing some of the dominant groups. The state is known for its rich cultural traditions, including the Calabar Carnival, Ekpe Festival, and the Leboku New Yam Festival.
Key Ethnic Features of Cross River State:
- Major Ethnic Groups: Efik, Ejagham (Ekoi), Bekwarra, Yakurr, Boki, and more.
- Number of Indigenous Tribes: Over 25.
- Languages Spoken: Efik, Ejagham, Bekwarra, Yakurr, Boki, and others.
- Religions: Christianity (majority), followed by traditional beliefs.
2. Major Ethnic Groups and Their Languages in Cross River State
A. Efik People
The Efik are one of the most influential ethnic groups in Cross River State, known for their historical role as traders and administrators.
- Language: Efik
- Location: Calabar, Akpabuyo, Odukpani, and Bakassi.
- Culture: Famous for Ekpe masquerades, Efik cuisine (Edikang Ikong, Afang soup), and traditional attire.
- Religion: Predominantly Christianity.
B. Ejagham (Ekoi) People
The Ejagham (Ekoi) people are the largest ethnic group in Cross River State, known for their wood carving, Nsibidi writing system, and Ekpe secret society.
- Language: Ejagham (Ekoi)
- Location: Ikom, Etung, Ogoja, Akamkpa, and parts of Cameroon.
- Culture: Nsibidi script, Ekpe masquerades, and traditional tattooing.
- Religion: Christianity and traditional beliefs.
C. Bekwarra People
The Bekwarra people are one of the dominant ethnic groups in northern Cross River.
- Language: Bekwarra
- Location: Bekwarra Local Government Area.
- Culture: Known for traditional festivals and community leadership.
- Religion: Christianity.
D. Yakurr People
The Yakurr ethnic group is famous for the Leboku New Yam Festival, one of Nigeria’s most colorful celebrations.
- Language: Lokaa (Yakurr)
- Location: Ugep, Mkpani, and surrounding areas.
- Culture: Rich in festivals, music, wrestling, and agriculture.
- Religion: Christianity and traditional beliefs.
E. Boki People
The Boki are among the largest ethnic groups in Cross River State, particularly in the central region.
- Language: Boki
- Location: Boki Local Government Area.
- Culture: Known for forest conservation, traditional medicine, and storytelling.
- Religion: Christianity and traditional practices.
3. Complete List of Indigenous Tribes in Cross River State
Cross River State is home to over 25 indigenous ethnic groups, including:
- Efik
- Ejagham (Ekoi)
- Bekwarra
- Yakurr
- Boki
- Bahumono
- Mbembe
- Ukelle
- Yala
- Utugwang
- Olulumo
- Abayongo
- Nkim/Nkum
- Igede
- Ikom
- Mbembe
- Ododop
- Ijagam
- Ukele
- Ndebeji
- Atam
- Lokaa
- Ikun
- Anyima
- Ekajuk
Each of these ethnic groups has its own language, traditions, and customs, contributing to the state's rich cultural diversity.
4. Languages Spoken in Cross River State
Cross River State is linguistically diverse, with over 30 indigenous languages spoken. Some of the most widely spoken languages include:
- Efik – Spoken in Calabar and surrounding areas.
- Ejagham (Ekoi) – Spoken in Ikom, Etung, Akamkpa, and Ogoja.
- Bekwarra – Predominantly spoken in Bekwarra LGA.
- Yakurr (Lokaa) – Spoken in Ugep and Yakurr LGA.
- Boki – Spoken in Boki LGA.
- Mbembe – Found in Obubra and Yala.
- Hausa and Igbo – Spoken by traders and settlers.
- English and Nigerian Pidgin – Used as a lingua franca across the state.
Most residents in Cross River speak multiple languages, often using Efik, English, and Nigerian Pidgin for communication.
5. Cultural Festivals and Heritage in Cross River State
Cross River State is famous for its rich cultural heritage and festivals, which showcase its diversity. Some notable festivals include:
- Calabar Carnival (Efik & others) – Africa’s biggest street carnival, celebrated in December.
- Leboku New Yam Festival (Yakurr) – A major harvest festival in Ugep.
- Ekpe Masquerade Festival (Efik & Ejagham) – A sacred traditional festival showcasing Nsibidi writing and masquerades.
- Obudu New Yam Festival (Bekwarra & Yala) – A major festival in northern Cross River.
These festivals attract tourists from all over the world and highlight the state’s deep cultural traditions.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main ethnic group in Cross River State?
The Ejagham (Ekoi) people are the largest ethnic group in Cross River, followed by Efik and Bekwarra.
2. How many ethnic groups are in Cross River State?
Cross River State has over 25 indigenous ethnic groups.
3. What language is most commonly spoken in Cross River?
Efik, Ejagham, Bekwarra, Yakurr, and Boki are the most spoken indigenous languages.
4. Are there indigenous tribes in Cross River apart from Efik?
Yes, Cross River is home to Ejagham, Bekwarra, Yakurr, Boki, Mbembe, and many others.
5. What is Cross River State known for?
Cross River State is famous for:
- Calabar Carnival (Africa’s biggest street festival).
- Leboku New Yam Festival.
- Obudu Mountain Resort.
- Ekpe Masquerade Festival.
7. Conclusion
Cross River State is one of Nigeria’s most culturally diverse states, with a unique mix of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions. From the Efik and their influence on Nigerian cuisine, to the Ejagham and their ancient Nsibidi script, and the Yakurr with their famous Leboku Festival, Cross River remains a cultural powerhouse.
Are you from Cross River State? Which ethnic group do you belong to? Let us know in the comments!
