NUPE CULTURE: A HERITAGE OF PRIDE AND IDENTITY
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Nupes, who call themselves “Nupenci,” are referred to as “Nupawa” by the Hausas and “Tapa” by the Yorubas. They are an ethnic group primarily located in Niger State, with minority populations in Kwara and Kogi States, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
According to findings by Africa247 Channel, a media platform committed to documenting African cultures, the Nupe people are renowned both as artists and warriors which is an intriguing blend of both courage and romance. The Nupes are divided into several subgroups, including the Batau, Kyede, Eghagi, Ebe, and Benu, among others, each speaking related dialects. While some Nupes live within their traditional boundaries, others have long settled in surrounding areas.
It is also reported that, despite being spread across several states in west-central and northern Nigeria, the majority of the Nupe population resides in Niger State, with significant communities in Kwara and Kogi.
It was also gathered that in the early 19th century, Nupe history was marked by political instability and succession disputes. This climaxed in 1796 when two rivals, Etsu Jimada and Majiya II, both claimed the throne. Islam began influencing the region around 1770, with the first Muslim Nupe king ascending during that era.
Nupe economy traditionally revolved around local markets and food production rather than export-oriented industries. The region was a significant hub on trade routes. Popular Nupe exports included rice, nuts, smoked fish, palm kernels, shea nuts, shea butter, groundnuts, and crafts, while imports often included palm oil, salt, kola nuts, and livestock.
In Nupe culture, kinship are called “Dangi” which defines both broad and close relationships.The extended family remains the foundation, typically living together and recognizing a common family head known as “Emitsu.”
Religious and ceremonial roles are assigned to various officials. Events such as funerals, weddings, naming ceremonies, coronations, graduations, and national or religious holidays are central to social life. With the spread of Islam, new celebrations like the Islamic New Year (Muharram), Eid-el-Fitr, and Eid-el-Kabir became part of Nupe tradition. Still, many Nupes maintain elements of traditional beliefs, including reverence for a sky god, ancestral spirits, and nature spirits.
In the area of fashion, Africa247 Channel discovered that Nupe traditional dress is both rich and distinctive. A Nupe woman can be easily identified by garments like Ekupara, Nnawadzwa, Ebwa, Kpasa, and Gbadu—each representing Nupe elegance and identity.
One special fabric, Ede-Kpasa, is woven locally in two variants: one from local thread known as “manzari” and another from imported thread. Nupe women traditionally wear nine different clothing pieces, including Tobigi, Simi, Ewo, Ede, Edeko, Fula/Tsotso, Rufuta/Lilo, Edetikpe, and more.
Beads are also an important fashion element—worn on the neck, waist, and ears—and are often more striking than many modern accessories.
Despite modernization, Nupe traditional dress and customs remain essential markers of identity. These are not outdated relics but living heritage, worthy of pride and preservation. Youth, especially women, should be encouraged to embrace them over foreign styles.
The Nupe language is one of Nigeria’s recognized tongues, celebrated not just for its linguistic uniqueness but also for the discipline, respect for elders, hospitality, and friendliness of its speakers.
As traditional rulers are working tirelessly to preserve their legacy—let them the Nupes support however they can. Through unity, dignity, and cultural pride, the Nupe people continue to rise.
Watch out for the video soon to be published on our YouTube channel @
https://www.youtube.com/@africa247live