List Of Indigenous Tribes, Languages, And Ethnic Groups In Niger State, Nigeria
Niger State, located in North-Central Nigeria, is the largest state in the country by landmass and is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups. Each of these indigenous tribes has its own unique language, cultural traditions, and historical significance. Below is a comprehensive list of the indigenous ethnic groups in Niger State, along with their languages and the local government areas (LGAs) where they are predominantly found.
Indigenous Tribes, Languages, and Ethnic Groups in Niger State
|
Ethnic Group |
Language Spoken |
Local Government Areas (LGAs) Found |
|
Nupe |
Nupe |
Bida, Agaie, Lapai, Mokwa, Lavun, Edati |
|
Gwari (Gbagyi) |
Gwari (Gbagyi) |
Suleja, Chanchaga, Bosso, Shiroro, Paikoro, Tafa |
|
Hausa |
Hausa |
Minna, Suleja, Kontagora, Rijau, Borgu (widespread across the state) |
|
Kambari |
Kambari |
Rijau, Magama, Mariga |
|
Kamuku |
Kamuku |
Mariga, Rafi, Mashegu |
|
Fulani |
Fulfulde |
Kontagora, Borgu, Lapai, and spread across the state |
|
Dukawa |
Dukawa |
Rijau, Mariga |
|
Bassa |
Bassa |
Shiroro, Munya |
|
Bariba (Baatonu) |
Bariba (Baatonu) |
Borgu |
|
Pangu (Pangawa) |
Pangu |
Rafi, Mariga |
|
Shiroro |
Shiroro |
Shiroro, Munya |
Key Highlights of Niger State's Ethnic Diversity
- Linguistic Diversity – Niger State has a rich linguistic heritage, with languages belonging to the Nupoid, Kainji, and Gur language families, among others.
- Cultural Significance – Many tribes have unique festivals, such as the Gaani Festival (Bariba), Etsu Nupe Festival (Nupe), and Sharo Festival (Fulani).
- Economic Activities – The people of Niger State engage in farming, fishing, cattle rearing, trading, and pottery.
- Traditional Leadership – The state has powerful traditional rulers, including the Etsu Nupe, the Emir of Suleja, and the Emir of Borgu, who play key roles in governance and cultural preservation.
Niger State’s ethnic groups contribute to the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.
