List Of Indigenous Tribes, Languages, And Ethnic Groups In Taraba State, Nigeria
Taraba State, located in northeastern Nigeria, is one of the most ethnically diverse states in the country. It is home to over 80 indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own language, traditions, and cultural identity. Below is a detailed list of the indigenous tribes, the languages they speak, and where they are predominantly found within the state.
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Indigenous Tribes, Languages, and Ethnic Groups in Taraba State
|
Ethnic Group |
Language Spoken |
Local Government Areas (LGAs) Found |
|
Jukun |
Jukun |
Wukari, Ibi, Donga, Takum |
|
Tiv |
Tiv |
Takum, Wukari, Donga, Gassol |
|
Mumuye |
Mumuye |
Yorro, Zing, Ardo-Kola, Jalingo, Lau |
|
Fulani |
Fulfulde |
Found throughout Taraba State |
|
Chamba |
Chamba |
Gashaka, Sardauna, Bali, Donga |
|
Kuteb |
Kuteb |
Takum, Ussa |
|
Wurkun |
Wurkun |
Karim Lamido, Lau |
|
Ndoro |
Ndoro |
Gashaka, Bali |
|
Jenjo |
Jenjo |
Karim Lamido |
|
Banso |
Banso |
Sardauna |
|
Bali |
Bali |
Bali |
|
Bikwin |
Bikwin |
Karim Lamido |
|
Dakka |
Dakka |
Gashaka |
|
Kambu |
Kambu |
Karim Lamido |
|
Lufu |
Lufu |
Kurmi |
|
Mayo-Kebbi |
Mayo-Kebbi |
Sardauna |
|
Ndola |
Ndola |
Kurmi |
|
Samba |
Samba |
Bali |
Key Highlights of Taraba State’s Ethnic Diversity
- Linguistic Diversity – The state has over 40 different languages, with Hausa and Fulfulde serving as lingua franca for communication.
- Cultural Festivals – Major cultural events include the Nwonyo Fishing Festival (Jukun), Kakara Festival (Kuteb), and Gando Dance Festival (Mumuye).
- Economic Activities – The people engage in farming (yam, rice, tea), cattle rearing, fishing, and local crafts.
- Traditional Leadership – The state has strong traditional institutions, with major rulers like the Aku Uka of Wukari (Jukun) and Ukwe Takum (Kuteb).
Taraba State’s ethnic diversity and cultural richness make it one of Nigeria’s most unique states.
