NIGERIA TO THE WORLD: The Major Tribes Of The Plateau

Welcome to Plateau State, the Home of Peace and Tourism, where culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes come together beautifully. Today, we’re celebrating three major tribes that make Plateau State truly unique — the Berom, Ngas, and Afizere.

Located on the beautiful high grounds of the Jos Plateau, the Berom are known for their scenic landscapes and rolling hills. They speak the Berom language and span about four local government areas. Their vibrant culture comes alive during festivals like Nzem Berom (held every March/April), Nzem TouChun, and Wusal Berom. Food lovers, take note! Their traditional staple is chun (fonio), served as tuk chun with any soup, or enjoyed as katai chun (wild veggie soup). As time went, the Beroms adopted pwana and ngai (millet) for gruel.

Marriage customs are rich in symbolism. Traditionally, the Berom dowry consisted of one live horse and six goats. Today, this has been monetized, but the significance remains unchanged. Their beautiful green and maroon attire tells a story: green represents the cactus in their land, while maroon honors tee, a local powder used for protection and healing.

The Ngas people are an ethnic group of Nigeria, primarily located in the Plateau State. They have a rich and unique cultural heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation. Famous for their incredible pottery adorned with symbols and motifs that have great cultural significance, each piece is art, woven with cultural symbols and history.

They live with rhythm! From traditional gongs, flutes, and xylophones to energetic dances full of life and complex footwork accompanied by singing and clapping.

And can we talk about fashion? Ngas traditional wear is a burst of color! Women tie bright wrappers and head-ties, while men style elegant flowing robes and caps — all made from local materials with stunning detail.

The Afizere people also known as Jarawa (a name inspired by the graceful “dragging” feet movement in their dances). They have a beautiful traditional leadership system headed by an Agwom, supported by five royal families. The Asharuwa danceis a cherished part of their heritage that has been maintained over the years. In terms of dressing, kings wear the kukpra and sport unique barbed hair with a royal middle row — a true crown in itself! They also carry a special staff called akbong. Women wear the elegant akpi (covering chest and waist), while men tie the itak around their waists. Their food is deliciously unique! These include: Ikam Itson (hungry rice), Akare, Nakan, Asirik Itson, and more.

These three tribes — Berom, Ngas, and Afizere — are the heartbeat of Plateau State. Their songs, dances, languages, foods, festivals, and warm hospitality make Plateau one of Nigeria’s most culturally rich states.

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