Located in the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria, Kwara State has earned its slogan, “The State of Harmony,” through its remarkable ability to blend diverse ethnic groups into a peaceful coexistence.
The state’s name, “Kwara,” originates from the Nupe word for the River Niger, which flows through several local government areas of Kwara State, including Jebba, Edu, and Patigi.
This article explores five of prominent tribes in Kwara State in no particular order. Enjoy.
Bariba
The Bariba, also called Baruba or Baatoumbu, mainly live in the Kaiama and Baruten local government areas of Kwara State. They number about 400,000 in Nigeria, forming a significant minority. Notably, around 80% of the Bariba people live in neighboring Benin Republic, where they’re the fourth largest ethnic group.
Historically, the Bariba were instrumental in establishing the Borgou empire in Benin. Today, they are predominantly Muslim and speak the Baatonum language.
Oworo
The Oworo people are one of the tribes found in Kwara State. They present an interesting case of ethnic evolution. They’re thought to have split from the larger Yoruba ethnic group, maintaining strong linguistic ties to their roots. The Oworo dialect closely resembles Yoruba, with one notable exception: the absence of the letter ‘f’. For example, the Yoruba word “funfun” (white) becomes “hunhun” in Oworo.
Local history suggests the Oworo people migrated from Ile-Ife, settling in what’s now known as Oworo land – an area comprising 32 towns and villages along the western bank of the River Niger. Farming and trade form the core of their economy.
Yoruba
The Yoruba constitute the majority in Kwara State, making up about 75% of the population. This numerical advantage translates into considerable political and economic influence within the state.
Historically, the Yoruba controlled Ilorin, Kwara’s capital, before a power shift to the Fulani. Despite this change, Kwara is still widely considered a Yoruba state, reflecting the enduring influence of Yoruba culture and traditions in the region.
Nupe
Known to their Yoruba neighbors as ‘Tapa’, the Nupe people have established a significant presence in Nigeria’s middle belt and northern regions. OldNaija gathered that hey share cultural elements with both the Yoruba and Hausa ethnic groups, including the tradition of tribal marks.
Mostly Muslim, the Nupe form an important minority in Kwara State, while holding a dominant position in neighboring Niger State.
Fulani
While not the largest group in Kwara, the Fulani contribute significantly to the state’s cultural mix. This nomadic people, also known as Fula or Fulbe, are found across numerous African countries, including Nigeria, Senegal, Mali, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Sudan, Togo, Cameroon, Niger, Ghana etc.
In Kwara, the Fulani make up a major ethnic group in the state capital, Ilorin. Their oral histories hint at Egyptian origins, though linguistic evidence points to the Senegambian region. The Fulani are known for their expertise in cattle rearing.
Kwara State’s ability to peacefully integrate these diverse ethnic groups serves as a model of multicultural coexistence in Nigeria. Each tribe brings its unique traditions, languages, and customs, adding to the cultural richness that defines “The State of Harmony.”
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