SUMMARY

Kuteb, also referred to as “Kutev” or “Zompere”, is an ethnic group that migrated through Central Africa from Egypt around 1000 AD to reside in present-day Nigeria and Cameroon. Its population is settled mainly around the hilly Tukum local government area of Taraba state in southeastern Nigeria, which borders western Cameroon.

The Kuteb is estimated to have a population of approximately 600 000 within Nigeria and 2000 within Cameroon. Many rely on farming, fishing or hunting for their livelihoods. Christianity overtook traditional beliefs to become the dominant religion amongst the Kuteb during the twentieth century. An overarching Kwe Kukwen and Ukwe, along with a Council of Elders drawn from the individual Kuteb clans, lead the Kuteb.

Several other ethnic groups inhabit the same or neighboring areas, such as the Tiv and the Hausa. Amongst these various groups, conflict has broken out due to ethnic, religious or resource-driven issues at times (to find out more, see: Kuteb – Tiv).