Insight

• Ikiodiete George
• 4 Min Read

Top Listed Tribes: 10 Oldest And Most Spoken Languages In Nigeria

Nigeria is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world, with over 500 ethnic groups and more than 525 indigenous languages. From ancient dialects passed through generations to languages now spoken by millions, Nigeria’s tribal languages form the heartbeat of its culture, history, and identity.

This guide takes you through the 10 oldest and most spoken languages in Nigeria, highlighting the tribes behind them, their regional spread, and why these languages remain culturally and socially relevant.

Quick Overview: Nigeria’s Language Landscape

Top 10 Oldest & Most Spoken Languages in Nigeria

Language Profiles and Historical Significance

1. Hausa

• Tribe: Hausa

• Region: North-West, North-East, some parts of Cameroon & Niger

• Notable Facts:

  • One of the oldest and most documented African languages.

  • Hausa is spoken as a first or second language by tens of millions.

  • Major language of trade, politics, and religion (Islamic teachings).

2. Yoruba

• Tribe: Yoruba

• Region: Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara, Kogi

• Notable Facts:

  • Rich in proverbs, spiritual lore, and poetry.

  • Spoken widely in diaspora communities (e.g. Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad).

  • Has a deep connection to Ifá and traditional religion.

3. Igbo

• Tribe: Igbo

• Region: Abia, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, parts of Delta

• Notable Facts:

  • Igbo has dozens of dialects but one standard form.

  • Tied to traditional customs, masquerades, and oratory.

  • Rapidly modernizing with online platforms and tech use.

4. Fulfude (Fulani Language)

• Tribe: Fulani

• Region: Widespread in North Nigeria, Sahel West Africa

• Notable Facts:

  • Nomadic and pastoralist tribes helped spread the language.

  • Shares similarities with other West African dialects.

  • Associated with Islamic scholars and cattle herders.

5. Kanuri

• Tribe: Kanuri

• Region: Borno, Yobe, parts of Niger and Chad

• Notable Facts:

  • Traces its history back to the ancient Kanem-Bornu Empire.

  • Kanuri people were among the earliest to embrace Islam in Nigeria.

  • Still used in local media and governance in Borno State.

6. Tiv

• Tribe: Tiv

• Region: Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa

• Notable Facts:

  • One of the most populous tribes in the Middle Belt.

  • Language is tonal, rich in oral literature.

  • Tiv people maintain strong cultural festivals and dances.

7. Ibibio

• Tribe: Ibibio, Annang, Efik (closely related)

• Region: Akwa Ibom, Cross River

• Notable Facts:

  • Among Nigeria’s oldest languages, predating colonial rule.

  • Related to Efik, the language of early Christian literature in Nigeria.

  • Still taught in schools in Cross River State.

8. Ijaw

• Tribe: Ijaw (includes Kalabari, Nembe, Okrika)

• Region: Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta

• Notable Facts:

  • Language family includes several dialects.

  • Ijaw people are deeply connected to the Niger Delta creeks.

  • Their languages are tied to water deities and oral epics.

9. Nupe

• Tribe: Nupe

• Region: Niger, Kwara, Kogi

• Notable Facts:

  • Language is central to Nupe traditional religion and monarchy.

  • The Etsu Nupe (king) still holds cultural influence.

  • Popular in northern middle belt institutions.

10. Edo (Bini)

• Tribe: Edo

• Region: Edo State

• Notable Facts:

  • Language of the ancient Benin Kingdom.

  • Bini culture is rich in bronze art, royal lineage, and storytelling.

  • Edo language is still used in palaces and traditional worship.

Tribe, Region & Language Spread

FAQs

Conclusion

Nigeria’s identity lies in its diversity — and nothing showcases that better than its languages. These top 10 tribal languages are not only among the oldest in Africa, but also the most widely spoken in Nigeria today. From the Hausa streets of Kano to the Yoruba heartlands of Ibadan, these languages continue to shape culture, music, politics, and unity.

So whether you’re Nigerian or a curious global citizen, now is a great time to embrace, learn, and promote Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage.