Thursday, 8 October 2015

5 Traditional Ethnic Groups To Watch out For

The dominance of three Nigerian ethnic groups namely Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo have made other groups appear ‘inconspicuous’ as a result they constantly feel marginalized in their motherland.

To promote and preserve some of these ethnic groups whose history has shaped Nigeria, Jovago identifies 5 ethnic groups aside from the big three. We show that their cultures, values, tradition and belief systems are as rich as the ‘big 3’.

Ijaw

The Niger Delta region is the largest ethnic group in the South-south Nigeria.

They cut across three States namely Bayelsa, Delta and River and celebrate their culture mainly through festivals like the Seigbein fishing festival and Isemi festival in Bayelsa state.

Ijaw people are primarily fishermen and they love their ogogoro or gin. They distinguish themselves with their bowler hat, blouse, wrapper and walking stick. Former President Goodluck Jonathan hails from the Ijaw ethnic group.

Berom

Jos in North central Nigeria is one of the most accommodating, cool and warm cities in Nigeria.

The people of Berom can be found in the Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos North and Jos south regions of Plateau State.

The Nzem Berom is a festival that the people use to connect with their heritage. It is celebrated in the 4th month of every year. Meanwhile, the population of the Berom people is about 1.5 million.

Ebira

The heritage of the Ebiras is very interesting. In spite of the fact that their recognized inhabited geographical area is Kogi state.

They have migrated beyond Kogi to reside in Kwara, Nassarawa and Abuja. Each of these places have influenced their culture and festivals.

In Kogi state where the Ebira originates from, the Echane Masquerade festival is celebrated and it is associated with Ihima community in Okehi Local Government of Kogi.

Kanuri

Many people believe that the Kanuri people are Hausas or Fulanis, however, they are not! Domiciled in Borno State, this ethnic group only makes the headlines for the right reasons.