Utugwang, East Mbube in Nigeria

Introduction / History

Originating from Uturu in Benue State, the Utugwang people traveled south and now reside in the Obudu local government area of Cross River State, Nigeria. Others say they traveled north from South Africa. They had suffered through wars for many decades, and at last they found a permanent home in Nigeria. There are four different dialects in this area: Utugwang, Mgbenege, Okworogung, and Ukwortung. Utugwang, means "Let's come together," and is the name used by the people themselves to identify this whole group.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many members of the community are civil servants or small business owners. Some make baskets and woven mats, but most are farmers. The major crops of this area include yams, groundnuts, cassava and rice.

Politically, the Utugwang tribe is structured into three political wards (electoral constituencies), which are part of twelve political constituencies in Obudu Local Government Council. Each ward usually elects a counselor who represents them at the legislative arm of the local government administration.

The Utugwang people highly value peace. They also value hospitality. When there is a visitor, people will protect them, even if that person is being criticized by another member of the Utugwang tribe.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Although there are villages with a high percentage of Christians, many Utugwang people fear witchcraft and evil spirits. Some people try to protect themselves by consulting oracles in the forest and using a talisman while others go to the church for prayer. One pastor boldly stated, "God is the only Protector. We depend on God for our protection." Between 65 and 90 percent state that they are Christians. Most others tend to follow traditional religious practices. For the most part, church attendance is very high and heart response to the gospel is growing gradually.

What Are Their Needs?

Their language has no written form which means that there is no Bible or even portions of Scripture available for them to read in their heart language. No videos, recordings or films are in existence either. A language development project in Utugwang would give these people access to the Word of God in the language they understand best.

Multilingualism amongst the Utugwang people is high. The language of instruction is English, however the vernacular is used in the lower primary classes. The Utugwang speak Nigerian Pidgin English, Standard English, and the vernacular, but most feel strongly that their own language is superior to English and Pidgin. Although there are many churches and local pastors, the people express their desire for outside assistance from cross-cultural missionaries. They would like support with Bible translation, seminary training, Bible teaching, evangelism as well as help with medical care and training.

Prayer Points

Pray for a Bible translation project in the language they understand best.
Pray for unity among church members resulting in disciples making more disciples.
Pray that the people will look to Christ to free them from the fear of witchcraft and evil spirits.
Pray that the people would continue to respond to the gospel.

Text Source:   Joshua Project