Benue state culture is a huge heritage from the past times, from the epochs when local tribes and ethnic groups had their ancient beliefs and worshipped ancient powers in their own specific way. Let’s see what they have from this heritage now.

What’s Benue ethnic culture?
The culture of Benue State is a mixture of beliefs, traditions, customs, and habits, since the area is inhabited by several different ethnic groups. They are Tiv, Igbo, Hausa, Idoma, Igede, Abakpa, Etulo, Jukun, Nyifon, and Akweya. Of course, all of them have contributed into the general culture face of the state. However, Tiv are the most numerous in this state, and their culture and traditions are dominating here.

you ask a stranger about their image of the culture in this area, they will most likely reply that Benue State is a state of colors, dances, music, and masqueraded festivals. This is what attracts a flow of tourists to this area, the chance of seeing the dances in their natural surroundings, not on the stage.

 Is there any big and bright Benue cultural festival?

One of the brightest events of this type is an ancestral festival held by the local Idomas. They worship their deceased ancestors and reinforce the contact between the deceased and the living ones with the help of masquerades. Tourists are often attracted to Benue State only to watch this festival.

The local Igedes also have their festival, which is held early in September. This is the festival of yam, which is loved dearly in this area. However, this festival usually takes place in the governmental areas, which are densely populated with the Igede people (there are nine such areas, which belong to other tribes than Tiv).

Tiv people have a festival each time somebody gets married: Tiv marriage parties are often colorful and very vibrant. In addition to the marriage ceremonies, they often have dance competitions, and the dance of choice is usually Swange. Finally, the Tiv tribe has its own puppet show called Kwagh-hir, which is a lot of fun and a great entertainment.

More about Benue culture and their heritage soon...