The Nupe tribe is an ethnic group native to the Middle Belt region of Nigeria, primarily residing in Niger State, Kwara State, and Kogi State. Here are some key facts about the Nupe tribe:

Language: The Nupe language, also known as Nupe-Nupe-Tako, is a member of the Nupoid branch of the Niger-Congo language family. Spoken by approximately 1.5 million people in Nigeria. There are several dialects of Nupe, including Nupe, Tako, and Kupa. Nupe is a tonal language with a subject-verb-object word order. Nupe vocabulary is rich in words related to agriculture, fishing, and craftsmanship. The Nupe language uses the latin alphabet, but there are efforts to develop a unique writing system. It is considered a vulnerable language with a risk of falling out of use among younger generations. Nupe is used in local governance, traditional ceremonies, and daily life. Efforts are being made to introduce Nupe language education in schools.

Culture: Nupe culture is rich in tradition and customs, with a strong emphasis on agriculture, fishing, and craftsmanship. They are known for their expertise in woodcarvings, pottery, and weaving. Nupe people wear colorful, intricately patterned clothing, often adorned with beads and cowry shells. Nupe masquerades are renowned for their beauty and significance, used in ceremonies and storytelling. The Nupe people are skilled in riverine fishing techniques, it is also another essential occupation for them. The Nupe king which is known as 'Etsu Nupe' plays a significant role in traditional governance and cultural roles. Ceremonies like the Etsu Nupe festival, showcases their rich cultural heritage and their music and dance are integral to their culture mostly used in storytelling, celebration, and worship. Nupe culture places great emphasis on respect for elders and ancestral spirits. In Nupe, community is central to them, with a strong sense of shared identity and cooperation.

History: The Nupe people originated from the Tsoede area of present-day Niger State, Nigeria. During the 10th - 15th century the Nupe kingdom was established, with it's capital at Gbara. In the 15th - 18th century, the Nupe kingdom was expanded, conquering neighboring tribes and establishing a powerful empire. Islam was introduced to the Nupe people in the 18th century, influencing their culture and politics. The Nupe kingdom resisted British colonization, this was during the 19th - 20th century, but eventually became a British protectorate. During the post - colonial era (20th century), the Nupe people played a significant role in Nigeria's independence movement and subsequent political developments. The Nupe people continue to navigate the challenges of modernization, cultural preservation, and political representation.

Religion: The Nupe people believe in a supreme being, " Soko ", who is considered the creator and sustainer of life. They reverence ancestral spirits, " Etsu ", who are believed to influence daily life and destiny. The Nupe people also believe in nature spirits, " Ndaei ", associated with rivers, forests, and other natural phenomena. Traditional divination practices, like " Ifa ", are used for guidance and insight. Islam was introduced to the Nupe people in the 18th century, many Nupe people blend Islamic practices with traditional beliefs, creating a unique syncretic religion. Some Nupe people follow Islamic practices like prayers, fasting, and pilgrimage to Mecca. Christianity was introduced to the Nupe people, with some converting to Christianity.

The Nupe people perform various rituals, like the " Etsu Nupe " festival, to honor their ancestors and deities. Animal sacrifices are offered to appease the gods and ancestors. Certain taboos, like forbidden foods or actions, are observed to maintain balance and harmony.

Population: The Nupe tribe population is estimated to be around 1.5 million people, primarily residing in Nigeria's Middle Belt region. Approximately 800,000 Nupe people reside in Niger State, particularly in the Bida, Lapai and Agaie Local Government Areas. I Kwara State, around 300,000 Nupe people reside there, mainly in the Patigi, Lafiagi and Edu Local Government Areas. About 200,000 Nupe people live in Kogi State, primarily in the Lokoja, Koton-Karfe, and Mope-Muro Local Government Areas. A significant number of Nupe people also live in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Smaller Nupe communities can be found in other states, including Venue, Nasarawa, and Plateau.

Traditional Occupation: The Nupe traditional occupations include mostly farming, fishing, woodcarvings, pottery, weaving, blacksmithing, leatherwork, hunting, herding and trading. These occupations have been passed down through generations and continue to play a significant role in Nupe culture and daily life.

Notable Customs: Intricately designed masks are used in ceremonies and storytelling. Colorful, patterned clothing is worn for special occasions, elders are highly revered and play a significant role in decision-making. Boys and girls undergo initiation rites to mark transitions to adulthood. Complex marriage customs involve negotiations, gifts, and ceremonies. Elaborate funerals honor the deceased and ensure safe passage to the afterlife. Oral traditions pass down history, myths, and cultural values. Vibrant festivals celebrate harvests, seasons and cultural events. In Nupe, guests are treated with respect and generosity, reflecting the Nupe value of hospitality. Certain actions or food in Nupe are forbidden to maintain balance and harmony.

Food: The Nupe tribe has a diverse and flavorful cuisine, reflecting their agricultural and fishing traditions. Some of their staple foods and dishes include: Tuwo (corn or rice flour porridge), Akara (fried bean cakes), Eba ( thick corn or cassava flour paste), fufu, rice, yams, plantains etc. Popular dishes like Kuli-Kuli (roasted peanut snack), Dakuwa ( roasted maize snack ), Gbagba (stewed meat or fish with vegetables), suya etc are also part of the Nupe cuisine. Beverages like kunu, zobo, burukutu etc are popular amongst the Nupe people. The Nupe's tribe's cuisine is characterized by the use of local ingredients, spices and traditional cooking methods. Their dishes are flavorful, nutritious, and often served with hospitality.

Festivals: The Nupe tribe celebrates various festivals throughout the year, showcasing their rich cultural heritage. The Etsu Nupe festival, honors the king and showcases cultural performances, masquerades, and traditional music. Kiri Gani festival celebrates the beginning of the harvest season with music, dance, and feasting. A spiritual festival known as the Boring festival honors the gods and ancestors with rituals, sacrifices, and masquerades. The Gani Gani festival marks the end of the harvest season with thanksgiving ceremonies and cultural performances. Yam festival celebrates the yam harvest with feasting, music, and dance. Fishing festival honors the river gods and celebrates fishing season with boat races and fish feasts. The Nupe cultural day showcases Nupe culture, music, dance, and art. These festivals promote unity, cultural preservation, and social bonding among the Nupe people.

The Nupe Tribe is a vibrant and rich cultural heritage group, native to Nigeria's Middle Belt region. With a history spanning over a thousand years, they have developed a unique blend of traditional and Islamic practices. Known for their skilled craftsmanship, agricultural expertise, and festive celebrations, the Nupe people proudly maintain their cultural identity while embracing modernization. Their strong sense of community, respect for elders, and ancestral reverence are core values that continue to guide their daily lives.

Ndako Nupe !!!