Noteworthy Names: The Top 10 Ibibio People You Should Know

Ibibio people are an ethnic group found in southern Nigeria. They are known for their rich cultural heritage, which includes a vibrant music scene, traditional dance, and a variety of arts and crafts. Notable people of Ibibio ethnicity include:

• Ini Edo: Nollywood actress known for her roles in “Last Flight to Abuja”, “Guilty Pleasures”, and “Phone Swap”.
• Ubong King: Entrepreneur and founder of Protection Plus Services Limited (PSPL), a Nigerian security company.
• Obong Sampson Udoehe: Politician who served as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2015 to 2019.
• Nsima Ekere: Politician who served as the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from 2016 to 2018.
• Etiaba Nsima: First female Senator from Akwa Ibom State, serving from 2007 to 2011.
• Ekpo Udoma: Minister of Budget and National Planning in the Nigerian Federal Cabinet.
• Gloria Coco Jackson: Politician and the first female to be elected into the House of Representatives under the defunct National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC).
• Patrick Ekpo: Former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) of Nigeria.
• Etim Okon Essien: First Ibibio University Professor. He was also the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar from 1975 to 1980.
• Akaninyene Okon: Former military governor of Akwa Ibom State and Cross River State.

Ibibio Mystique: Unraveling Three Key Historical Legacies

The Ibibio people are an ethnic group found in southeastern Nigeria. They are one of the largest ethnic groups in the country and are known for their rich culture and history. The Ibibio community is made up of various clans, each with its own unique customs and traditions.

Over the centuries, the Ibibio people have inherited and preserved a number of important cultural practices and beliefs. These historical inheritances are still celebrated and cherished by the community today. Here are three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Ibibio heritage:

• Ekpo Masquerades: The Ekpo masquerades are one of the most iconic symbols of the Ibibio culture. These masquerades represent the spirits of the ancestors and are believed to bring good fortune to the community. The Ekpo masquerades are known for their elaborate costumes and masks, often adorned with colorful feathers and beads. They perform during special occasions and festivals, and their dances and rituals are accompanied by traditional music and drumming.
• Long Juju Shrine: The Long Juju Shrine is a sacred site located in Arochukwu, a town in the Ibibio region. This shrine has been in existence for centuries and is believed to have supernatural powers. It is a place of worship and pilgrimage for the Ibibio people, who visit the shrine to seek blessings, protection, and healing. The Long Juju Shrine is also associated with the Igbo people and is regarded as a significant historical inheritance shared between the two communities.
• Ekong Dance: The Ekong dance is a traditional dance form performed by the Ibibio people during cultural celebrations and social gatherings. It is characterized by rhythmic movements and energetic footwork. The Ekong dance is often accompanied by live music, played on traditional instruments such as the ekpang, a type of xylophone, and the ikoro, a large wooden slit drum. The dance is not only a form of entertainment but also a way for the Ibibio people to preserve their cultural heritage and pass it on to future generations.

In a striking celebration of diversity, numerous prominent individuals proudly reflect a mosaic of Beriberi, Tiv and Igbo roots, highlighting the intricate interplay of cultures within their heritage. From accomplished leaders to acclaimed artists, these figures embody the rich lexical semantic tapestry of ethnic backgrounds, illustrating the vibrant spectrum of human experiences.

Ethnic Factsheet: The Ibibio People

Region	States	Population
Akwa Ibom	Akwa Ibom	5,819,776
Cross River	Cross River	2,888,966
Rivers	Rivers	1,715,978
Abia	Abia	3,727,671
Akwa Ibom	Akwa Ibom	2,172,200
Benue	Benue	3,187,076
Delta	Delta	4,112,445
Ebonyi	Ebonyi	2,173,501
Enugu	Enugu	3,267,837
Imo	Imo	4,762,242

References to the Ibibio Ethnic Group

The Ibibio ethnic group is a cultural and linguistic community indigenous to the Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria. They are one of the major ethnic groups of the Niger Delta region and have a rich history, culture, and traditions. If you are interested in learning more about the Ibibio ethnic group, there are several references and resources available for further exploration.

• “The Ibibio People of Nigeria: Their General Culture, Art, and Fine Art” by Eno E. Ukpabio: This book provides a comprehensive overview of the Ibibio people, their culture, and their art. It delves into the history, language, social structure, religion, and traditional practices of the Ibibio ethnic group.
• “The Ibibio Union, Nigeria: A Century of History, Politics, and Culture, 1928-2014” by Ini Urua: This book explores the socio-political history of the Ibibio Union, an important organization that has played a significant role in the development and preservation of the Ibibio culture. It examines the union’s efforts to promote unity, education, and development among the Ibibio people.
• “The Ibibio Mask: Image of Nigeria” by John C. McCall: Focusing on the traditional masks of the Ibibio people, this book provides detailed information about the symbolism, aesthetics, and cultural significance of Ibibio masks. It includes vivid photographs and descriptions of various types of masks used in religious ceremonies, rituals, and performances.
• “Ibibio Music in Nigerian Life and Culture” by Imo E. Ekpo: This book explores the musical traditions and practices of the Ibibio people. It discusses the role of music in various aspects of Ibibio life, including ceremonies, festivals, and social gatherings. It also provides insights into the musical instruments, rhythms, and dance forms of the Ibibio ethnic group.
• Archives and Museums: Exploring the archives and museums in Akwa Ibom State can offer valuable resources for learning about Ibibio history and culture. The Akwa Ibom State Archives and the Ibibio Museum in Uyo, the state capital, house artifacts, documents, and other materials related to the Ibibio people. They provide an opportunity to delve deeper into the rich heritage of the Ibibio ethnic group.

By exploring these references and resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the Ibibio ethnic group, their history, culture, and traditions. Whether you are interested in their art, music, language, or socio-political history, these materials can provide valuable insights into the unique identity of the Ibibio people.

That concludes the information we can provide about famous Ibibio individuals. Thank you for reading.