The History and Culture of North Central Nigeria

Introduction

North Central Nigeria, often referred to as the Middle Belt, is a diverse and culturally rich region that serves as a bridge between the predominantly Muslim North and the Christian-dominated South. This region is home to numerous ethnic groups, each with unique traditions, languages, and historical backgrounds. The states in North Central Nigeria include:

• Benue

• Kogi

• Kwara

• Nasarawa

• Niger

• Plateau

• Federal Capital Territory (Abuja)

This article explores the history, ethnic composition, cultural practices, festivals, traditional governance, and economic activities of North Central Nigeria.

Historical Background of North Central Nigeria

Pre-Colonial Era

Before colonial rule, the Middle Belt was home to several independent kingdoms, chiefdoms, and stateless societies. Unlike the centralized empires of the Hausa-Fulani in the North or the Yoruba in the Southwest, many Middle Belt groups operated under decentralized systems.

1. Jukun Kingdom (Kwararafa)

   • One of the most powerful pre-colonial states in the region.

   • Ruled from Kororofa, they resisted Hausa and Kanem-Bornu invasions.

   • Known for their warrior culture and influence over neighboring tribes.

2. Nupe Kingdom

   • Located along the Niger River (present-day Niger, Kwara, and Kogi).

   • Established in the 15th century under Tsoede, who introduced bronze casting and centralized rule.

   • Engaged in wars with the Oyo Empire and later fell under Fulani rule in the 19th century.

3. Igala Kingdom

   • Located in present-day Kogi State.

   • Ruled by the Attah of Igala, the kingdom controlled trade along the Niger and Benue rivers.

   • Played a role in the trans-Saharan and Atlantic slave trades.

4. Tiv People

   • A major ethnic group in Benue State.

   • Lived in decentralized communities with a strong kinship system.

   • Engaged in farming and resisted Fulani slave raids.

Colonial Era (19th–20th Century)

• The British incorporated the Middle Belt into the Northern Protectorate in 1903.

• Christian missionaries established schools, leading to widespread literacy in some areas.

• The region became a battleground between Muslim Fulani and Christian ethnic groups.

Post-Independence (1960–Present)

• The Middle Belt has faced ethnic and religious conflicts, particularly between farmers and herders.

• States like Plateau and Benue have experienced violent clashes over land and resources.

• The creation of states in 1967 (and later in 1991) gave more autonomy to Middle Belt groups.

Ethnic Groups and Languages

The North Central region is one of Nigeria’s most ethnically diverse areas. Major ethnic groups include:

1. Tiv (Benue) – The largest ethnic group in Benue, known for farming.

2. Igala (Kogi) – A major kingdom with a rich history.

3. Nupe (Niger, Kwara) – Known for their craftsmanship and Islamic influence.

4. Ebira (Kogi, Nasarawa) – Farmers and traders with a strong cultural identity.

5. Berom (Plateau) – Indigenous people of Jos, known for mining and agriculture.

6. Gbagyi (Niger, FCT) – The original inhabitants of Abuja.

7. Jukun (Taraba, Benue) – Descendants of the Kwararafa kingdom.

8. Idoma (Benue) – Known for their warrior traditions and masquerades.

Languages:

• Most groups speak their native languages (Tiv, Igala, Nupe, etc.).

• Hausa is widely spoken as a lingua franca.

• English is the official language for education and government.

Cultural Practices and Traditions

Traditional Religion and Beliefs

Before the spread of Islam and Christianity, Middle Belt people practiced indigenous religions:

• Akom (Tiv) – Belief in a supreme god (Aondo) and ancestral spirits.

• Ekwu (Igala) – Worship of natural deities and ancestors.

• Ogun (Nupe) – Traditional god of iron and war.

Many still blend traditional beliefs with Christianity or Islam.

Festivals and Ceremonies

1. Igede Agba Festival (Benue) – Celebrated by the Igede people to mark the New Yam Festival.

2. Akwu Festival (Igala, Kogi) – Honors the Igala ancestors with music and dance.

3. Nupe Day (Niger, Kwara) – Celebrates Nupe culture with boat regattas and wrestling.

4. Puskat Festival (Tiv, Benue) – A harvest festival with traditional dances.

Traditional Rulership

• Attah of Igala – The paramount ruler of the Igala people.

• Och’Idoma – The traditional leader of the Idoma people.

• Emir of Bida – The Islamic ruler of the Nupe people.

• Tor Tiv – The king of the Tiv nation.

Marriage and Family Life

• Bride Price: Paid in cash, livestock, or farm produce.

• Polygamy: Common among Muslim and traditionalist communities.

• Initiation Rites: Some groups (like the Eggon in Nasarawa) practice male and female initiation ceremonies.

Economic Activities

1. Agriculture – The region is known as Nigeria’s “food basket” due to its fertile land.

   • Benue: Yam, rice, cassava.

   • Plateau: Potatoes, maize, vegetables.

   • Kogi: Fishing along the Niger and Benue rivers.

2. Mining – Plateau State has tin, columbite, and gemstones.

3. Trade – Major markets include:

   • Gboko Market (Benue) – Yam trade.

   • Bida Market (Niger) – Traditional crafts.

Challenges Facing North Central Nigeria

1. Ethnic and Religious Conflicts – Clashes between farmers and herders.

2. Underdevelopment – Poor infrastructure despite rich resources.

3. Political Marginalization – Many groups feel excluded from national power.

Conclusion

North Central Nigeria is a region of cultural diversity, rich history, and agricultural significance. Despite challenges, its people maintain strong traditions and contribute to Nigeria’s economy. Efforts to promote peace and development are crucial for the region’s future.