NIGERIA TO THE WORLD: Efik and Ogoja, Southern Nigeria’s Living Heritage

Today we will be looking the Efik people.

The Efik people, found mainly in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, as well as parts of western Cameroon, are one of southern Nigeria’s most culturally vibrant groups. Often called the Calabar people due to their deep ties with the historic city of Calabar, the Efik have long been known for their hospitality, colorful traditions, and mouthwatering cuisine.

Efik dishes like Ekpang Nkukwo, Edikang Ikong, and Afang Soup are culinary treasures loved across Nigeria. Historically, their meals were light on onions and pepper, with flavors drawn from local ingredients and creativity. Some of their dishes include Afang soup, a nutritious blend of wild okazi (afang) leaves and waterleaf; Edikang Ikong, a popular vegetable soup featuring pumpkin leaves and ugwu; Ekpang Nkukwo, a pottage made with grated cocoyam or water yam wrapped in leaves; and Edesi Isip, a unique coconut rice cooked with fresh coconut milk, dried fish, and spice.

When it comes to fashion, the Efik are masters of elegance. Before colonial influence, they wore raffia (Ndam) clothes, handwoven from palm fibers. Today, their signature Ọnyọnyọ, a Victorian-style gown adorned with coral beads remains a symbol of beauty and pride, especially during weddings and festivals. Efik men wear white shirts, neck scarves (Ọkpọmkpọm), and wrappers tied gracefully at the waist, reflecting royal poise.

Their marriage ceremony is a fun affair. It involves the groom's convoy, the exchange of gifts and drinks between families, and the bride's preparation in elaborate attire like the Ofong Ukod Anwang. Key aspects include the "shan adau" (a preparatory feast involving beniseed) and the Awayi Yakubu (payment of the non-refundable bride price). The ceremony culminates with the bride's presentation to her in-laws, prayers for a good marriage, and the couple's joyful celebration.

Spiritually, the Efik worship Abasi, the supreme God of life and death. Their traditional faith emphasizes purity and ancestral reverence, with rituals like the Ndok Festival to drive away evil spirits and Ankọ Ebekpa, a cleansing rite after war. The famed Fattening Room tradition, where brides-to-be learn homemaking and cultural values, also remains a cherished custom.

Further north lies Ogoja, home to the Ekoi (Ejagham) people and other tribes like the Mbube and Ekajuk. Known for their peaceful and welcoming nature, Ogoja’s people are largely farmers cultivating yams, cassava, and palm produce. It is also a center of education and enterprise — a place where old customs blend gracefully with modern aspirations. Uniquely, in some areas, women are free to marry multiple husbands — a cultural rarity in Nigeria.

Together, the Efik and Ogoja people embody the soul of southern Nigeria rich in tradition, hospitality, and timeless pride in their heritage.

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